# Spectrum Allocation Using Integer Linear Programming and Kerr Optical Frequency Combs
## 4 Conclusions  
This paper presents an innovative methodology for resource allocation in optical communication networks, highlighting its ability to prioritize multiple objectives, such as maximizing both the number of requests served and the bandwidth assigned to each. The approach not only considers typical system constraints, such as channel capacity and transmission distances but also adapts to the characteristics of the optical MRR and the sech\({}^{2}\) spectral profile of the MRR. This adaptation is crucial as it allows the integration of spectrum allocation algorithms with the generation of optical frequency combs (OFCs) using MRR, ensuring efficient and optimal allocation of available spectral resources. In this way, the methodology enhances overall network performance, adapting to the specific needs of each operational scenario.  
The proposed method demonstrates great adaptability by being applicable to any type of optical frequency comb, regardless of the technology used. This is due to the approach's ability to consider key characteristics such as power, optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR), and other relevant factors, irrespective of the comb's structure--whether it is a DKS or a constant-line comb. We did not just create an allocation method for a specific comb; we developed a versatile approach that can be applied to various technologies. This adaptability is enabled by cost function constraints that ensure precise and efficient allocation.  
The flexibility of the cost function is one of our most important achievements, as it allows us to prioritize either bandwidth or distance based on the scenario's needs, enhancing the network's adaptability and efficiency. The use of multilevel modulation formats and wavelengths generated by optical microresonators further strengthens the system's ability to effectively adjust to different bandwidth demands.  
Although the method has a high computational cost, some techniques can speed up the algorithm and reduce this cost, which would significantly increase performance and efficiency in PON networks. The proposed methodology integrates dynamic spectrum allocation with an RMSLA-WDM approach, based on ILP, contributing to the improvement of the BBR index and optimizing the use of available network resources.  
This work highlights the relevance of ILP techniques in the optimization of advanced optical communication systems and lays the groundwork for future research aimed at improving their real-time feasibility.  
Conceptualization and investigation, A.F.C.-S.; methodology and implementation, S.M.-T.; supervision, writing--review and editing, J.A.J.-V. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.  
This research was funded by Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnologia e Innovacion (MinCiencias), grant number 1110-890-82197 and ICETEX contract code 2022-0736.  
Not applicable.  
This study did not involve human subjects.  
The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to our aim to ensure careful use and to foster collaboration among parties.  
We would like to thank the Universidad Tecnologica de Pereira and Ministerio de Ciencia, Tecnologia e Innovacion de Colombia (MinCiencias) for their support.  
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.