Wavelength division multiplexed passive optical network has emerged as a promising solution to support a robust and large-scale next generation optical access network. It offers high-capacity data delivery and flexible bandwidth provisioning to all subscribers, so as to meet the ever-increasing bandwidth requirements as well as the quality of service requirements of the next generation broadband access networks. The maturity and reduced cost of the WDM components available in the market are also among the major driving forces to enhance the feasibility and practicality of commercial deployment. In this chapter, the author will provide a comprehensive discussion on the basic principles and network architectures for WDM-PONs, as well as their various enabling technologies. Different feasible approaches to support the two-way transmission will be discussed. It is believed that WDM-PON is an attractive solution to realize fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) applications.
