Methods and apparatus for managing static and dynamic optical network configurations to enable mapping an actual optical network or validating an expected optical network are provided. In one embodiment a validation method includes the step of selecting an optical path having a plurality of nodes from a database defining an expected optical network. A list of detected pilot tones from each node associated with the selected optical path is generated. An expected list of pilot tones associated with each node of the selected optical path is generated. Comparison of the expected and detected lists identifies any mismatched nodes. Another method includes the step of setting a first pilot tone source to have a first pilot tone value. All other network pilot tone sources are set to have another pilot tone value. An optical path associated with the first pilot tone source is then mapped by identifying each node of the network having the first pilot tone value. Extraneous information can be applied to provide greater assurances as to likelihood of possible actual optical paths during the mapping process. Methods of re-configuring network pilot tone sources to preserve mapping and validation abilities when adding nodes, adding optical paths, or even adding another network to a pre-existing network are also provided.