1

EXHIBIT 23.1


                       CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration
Statements on Form S-8 (No. 333-2713, No. 333-52467) of CIENA Corporation of our
report dated November 25, 1998 appearing on page 36 of this Annual Report on
Form 10-K.


PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP


McLean, VA
December 8, 1998






                                       65