Optical Switches are optoelectronic components designed to control the routing of light within an optical path by selectively directing, connecting, or isolating optical channels. They enable switching between different optical routes without converting the optical signal into an electrical form, supporting flexible optical signal management at the component or module level.

These devices are commonly categorized by their switching principle and optical interface structure, and are used as building blocks in systems that require configurable optical connectivity and controlled light distribution.

• Function: Directs or changes the path of optical signals between defined ports or channels.
• Signal domain: Operates primarily in the optical domain for light routing and path selection.
• Forms: Available as discrete components or integrated optical switching elements.