  Artificial intelligence (AI) is an extensive scientific discipline which
enables computer systems to solve problems by emulating complex biological
processes such as learning, reasoning and self-correction. This paper presents
a comprehensive review of the application of AI techniques for improving
performance of optical communication systems and networks. The use of AI-based
techniques is first studied in applications related to optical transmission,
ranging from the characterization and operation of network components to
performance monitoring, mitigation of nonlinearities, and quality of
transmission estimation. Then, applications related to optical network control
and management are also reviewed, including topics like optical network
planning and operation in both transport and access networks. Finally, the
paper also presents a summary of opportunities and challenges in optical
networking where AI is expected to play a key role in the near future.
