Methods and apparatus for determining a path in a communications network

A method for determining a path in an optical network, implemented by one or more controllers associated with a control layer, includes receiving a path request specifying start and end points, an associated bandwidth, and a longevity parameter providing an anticipated length during which the path is required; determining a route in the optical network through a routing algorithm executed by the controller, wherein the routing algorithm utilizes the start and end points, the associated bandwidth, and the longevity parameter to determine the path; and provisioning the path through a plurality of switches along the route.