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Accurate modeling of the gain spectrum in erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs) is essential for optimizing optical network performance, particularly as networks evolve toward multi-vendor solutions. In this work, we propose a generalized few-shot transfer learning architecture based on a semi-supervised self-normalizing neural network (SS-NN) that leverages internal EDFA features—such as VOA input/output power and attenuation—to improve gain spectrum prediction. Our SS-NN model employs a two-phase training strategy comprising unsupervised pre-training with noise-augmented measurements and supervised fine-tuning with a custom-weighted MSE loss. Furthermore, we extend the framework with transfer learning (TL) techniques that enable both homogeneous (same-feature space) and heterogeneous (different-feature sets) model adaptation across booster, pre-amplifier, and ILA EDFAs. To address feature mismatches in heterogeneous TL, we incorporate a covariance matching loss to align second-order feature statistics between the source and target domains. Extensive experiments conducted across 26 EDFAs in the COSMOS and Open Ireland testbeds demonstrate that the proposed approach significantly reduces the number of measurement requirements on the system while achieving lower mean absolute errors and improved error distributions compared to benchmark methods. 

Scalable methods for optical transmission performance prediction using machine learning (ML) are studied in metro reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexer (ROADM) networks. A cascaded learning framework is introduced to encompass the use of cascaded component models for end-to-end (E2E) optical path prediction augmented with different combinations of E2E performance data and models. Additional E2E optical path data and models are used to reduce the prediction error accumulation in the cascade. Off-line training (pre-trained prior to deployment) and transfer learning are used for component-level erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) gain models to ensure scalability. Considering channel power prediction, we show that the data collection process of the pre-trained EDFA model can be reduced to only 5% of the original training set using transfer learning. We evaluate the proposed method under three different topologies with field deployed fibers and achieve a mean absolute error of 0.16 dB with a single (one-shot) E2E measurement on the deployed 6-span system with 12 EDFAs. 

Multiple visions of 6G networks elicit Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a central, native element. When 6G systems are deployed at a large scale, end-to-end AI-based solutions will necessarily have to encompass both the radio and the fiberoptical domain. This paper introduces the Decentralized Multi- Party, Multi-Network AI (DMMAI) framework for integrating AI into 6G networks deployed at scale. DMMAI harmonizes AI-driven controls across diverse network platforms and thus facilitates networks that autonomously configure, monitor, and repair themselves. This is particularly crucial at the network edge, where advanced applications meet heightened functionality and security demands. The radio/optical integration is vital due to the current compartmentalization of AI research within these domains, which lacks a comprehensive understanding of their interaction. Our approach explores multi-network orchestration and AI control integration, filling a critical gap in standardized frameworks for AI-driven coordination in 6G networks. The DMMAI framework is a step towards a global standard for AI in 6G, aiming to establish reference use cases, data and model management methods, and benchmarking platforms for future AI/ML solutions. 

Digital twins provide a cost-effective means of evaluating performance, predicting network changes, and enhancing network administration and decision-making processes. However, acquiring detailed data for digital twin development remains a challenge due to commercial system constraints. City-scale testbeds, like COSMOS, offer practical solutions, aiding in data collection for modelling of digital twins. In this paper, we utilize data from experiments on the COSMOS testbed to design a digital twin model for the accumulation of gain ripple in cascaded Erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs). We quantify the gain ripple in terms of its peak-to-valley ratios and identify optimal EDFA combinations. Moreover, we explore the impact of system parameters, and validate the proposed digital model through comparison with experimental results. We show that the differences between the digital twin predictions and experimental results are <0.1 dB. 

We proposed the use of BOTDA as a monitoring tool to identify fiber types present in deployed hybrid-span fiber cables, to assist in network planning, setting optimal launch powers, and selecting correct modulation formats. 

We demonstrated under six minutes automatic provisioning of optical paths over field- deployed alien access links and WDM carrier links using commercial-grade ROADMs, whitebox mux- ponders, and multi-vendor transceivers. With channel probing, transfer learning, and Gaussian noise model, we achieved an estimation error (Q-factor) below 0.7 dB.