In what type of installation is wide wavelength division multiplexing (WWDM) used?

Wide Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WWDM) is primarily used in Passive Optical Networks (PONs) due to its ability to efficiently utilize available bandwidth by combining multiple wavelengths of light onto a single optical fiber. This allows for increased data transmission capacity without the need for additional fibers, making it ideal for PONs, which inherently rely on passive components such as splitters that distribute the light signals to multiple end users.

PONs leverage passive optical components that do not require electrical power to operate, unlike Active Optical Networks (AONs) that involve powered equipment at various nodes in the network. The integration of WWDM enhances the performance and scalability of PONs, accommodating more users and higher data rates through the use of multiple wavelengths.

In contrast, while Active Optical Networks and the other options can utilize multiplexing techniques, they do not specifically align with the core attributes and advantages of WWDM, particularly in the context of passive components and cost-efficiency. Thus, the use of WWDM is most fittingly associated with Passive Optical Networks.