Optical networking refers to the use of light to transmit data over long distances through fiber optic cables. This technology allows for faster and more efficient communication compared to traditional copper cables, as light signals can carry more information and are less susceptible to interference. In an optical network, data is converted into light pulses, which travel through the fiber optics. This enables high-speed internet, telephone services, and television broadcasting. Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) is a common technique used in optical networking, allowing multiple signals to be sent simultaneously over a single fiber, further increasing capacity.