Remote network management of optical networks has evolved from very limited operational capabilities to current operations where most functions can be accomplished remotely. Advances have also allowed a lower operational cost and near 100% reliability service levels. Optical networking technology advances have enabled this revolution in network management based on the optical network's capability to provide connectivity to centralized management platforms at a network operations center (NOC) where engineers can diagnose and resolve network faults from their workstation without the need to dispatch technical support to the site. The Lucent Global Network Operations Centers (GNOCs) have taken advantage of these optical networking technology advances to grow this component of the Lucent portfolio and provide unparalleled levels of network service at unit costs significantly lower than previously available to service providers.