Flexible virtual optical network provisioning using distance-adaptive modulation

A system for network provisioning, comprising:

• a processor configured to access non-transitory computer readable memory media, wherein the memory media store processor-executable instructions, the instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to:
• responsive to receiving a request for a virtual optical network (VON), calculate a first mapping pattern, the first mapping pattern includes a mapping of at least two virtual nodes to at least two physical nodes in an optical network;
• evaluate the first mapping pattern for compliance with the request, wherein distance-adaptive routing and spectral slot assignment is performed on the first mapping pattern;
• and
• when the first mapping pattern complies with the request:
• designate the first mapping pattern as a first valid mapping pattern;
• select, from valid mapping patterns for the request including the first valid mapping pattern, a final mapping pattern, wherein the final mapping pattern has at least one of a lowest spectral slot layer and a smallest spectral slot usage among the valid mapping patterns;
• allocate physical network resources, including physical nodes and lightpaths, based on the final mapping pattern;
• and
• respond to the request with an indication of the final mapping pattern.