Label swapping versus label preserving in packet switched networks: Impact on the label space size

In recent years, switching and networking solutions exploiting all-optical nodes are gaining increasing interest to achieve the target of ultrawide-bandwidth and low-latency packet or burst processing. On the one hand, many prototypes, validated by experimental demonstration of all-optical label processing solutions, have been developed. On the other hand, the primitive available technology for performing label processing poses several constraints on the label structures; this in turn significantly impacts the traffic engineering aspects of such a network.In this paper, the label assignment problem is studied in a network that makes forwarding decision based on optical packet labels and formulated independently of any technology. Specifically, the problem of assigning labels to identify the label switched path (LSP) packets in a unique and disjoint way is defined, with the objective of optimally minimizing the label space size (i.e. number of labels, or bits, required to uniquely identify the LSPs). The network scenarios where (i) labels have local point-to-point significance (i.e. the label is swapped when traversing each node), and (ii) labels have end-to-end significance (i.e. the label is preserved along the LSP traversing multiple nodes) are both investigated. For both scenarios, labels can be uniquely identified at each node or at each node-port. The label assignment strategies for all the possible scenarios are investigated.Both theoretical and practical methods, i.e. integer linear programming formulations and heuristics, respectively, are used to assess the efficiency of the proposed label preserving solution. Numerical results show that, for a significant set of network topologies, the label space size increase experienced by networks with label preserving capabilities is limited or negligible in both per-node and per-port label identification.     

标签分块技术在MPLS标签分配中的设计与应用

在MPLS网络中,数据包被短而定长的标签所封装,并根据标签进行转发。本设计通过对MPLS标签空间按不同业务处理进行分块,并为每个业务内嵌独立的本地标签池,设计并实现了基于标签分块技术的MPLS标签分配技术方案。验证表明,该方案有效提高了MPLS标签的申请释放效率,简化了MPLS各种协议业务的处理流程,增加了报文转发效率。     

MPLS technology in wireless networks

Recently, there has been increasing demand for Multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) technology in most internet service provider networks. The application of MPLS technology in wireless networking is evolving. Therefore, next generation wireless networks are required to have IP mobility solutions with high reliability, low-latency handoffs, and trustworthy security. In this paper, we propose a novel multi-path mobility scheme for fast handoff to achieve these requirements. The scheme is based on MPLS multi-path forwarding and network coding based on modulo-p Galois finite field GF(p = 2 ⁿ ) arithmetic. The simulation results show that our proposed approach scales well to fulfill fast handoff/handover performance while providing security for transmitted data with minor bandwidth overhead.     

QoS routing granularity in MPLS networks

This study investigates how constraint-based routing decision granularity significantly affects the scalability and blocking performance of QoS routing in an MPLS network. Coarse granularity, such as per-destination, has lower storage and computational overheads but is only suitable for best effort traffic. On the other hand, fine granularity, such as per-flow, provides lower blocking probability for bandwidth requests, but requires a huge number of states and high computational cost. To achieve cost-effective scalability, this study proposes using hybrid granularity schemes. The overflowed cache of the per-pair/flow scheme adds a per-pair cache and a per-flow cache as the routing cache, and performs well in blocking probability. The per-pair/class scheme groups the flows into several paths using routing marks, thus allowing packets to be label-forwarded with a bounded cache     

MPLS网络中DiffServ组播算法

文章提出一种在多协议标签交换(MPLS)网络中边界路由器实现组播和区分服务的算法,该算法利用处于分支点的边界路由器之间的标签交换路径来传输组播数据包,同时引入了信息管理点,用于计算、管理和调整组播树,实现全域的服务质量.描述了算法的具体细节和实现原理,也评价了该算法的可行性和优越性.     

MPLS: the magic behind the myths [multiprotocol label switching]

This article reviews the key differences between traditional IP routing and the emerging multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) approach, and identifies where MPLS adds value to IP networking. In various corners of the industry MPLS has been held up as the solution to IP QoS, gigabit forwarding, network scaling, and traffic engineering. Each of these expectations is critically considered in the light of developments in conventional gigabit IP routers. It is shown that MPLS adds the ability to forward packets over arbitrary non-shortest paths, and emulate high-speed “tunnels” between IP-only domains-capabilities critical to service providers who need to better manage resources around their backbones, or who are planning IP VPN services. However, it is also argued that the technology required to support IP QoS and gigabit forwarding is not unique to MPLS. A network of gigabit IP routers or switches may be entirely sufficient for QoS and performance if traffic engineering is not a requirement     

Edge distributed admission control in MPLS networks

This paper proposes a novel approach for admission control in traffic engineered data networks, which applies at network edges by means of dynamic thresholds evaluated on the basis of network status. The proposed method is described with focus on IP/MPLS networks, but it actually applies as well to a variety of scenarios, such as ATM or generalized MPLS. The proposed solution allows more efficient usage of network resources, especially at medium/high load, and increased robustness of the network.     

Issues on loop prevention in MPLS networks

In multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) networks, data packets are forwarded through label-switched paths (LSPs) which are set up using a label distribution protocol. Since any label distribution protocol makes use of information obtained from the layer 3 routing protocol, and the routing protocol may not be loop-free, there is a possibility of an LSP forming a loop. This article focuses on MPLS loop prevention by which LSPs are prevented from forming loops. Especially, two loop prevention algorithms that have been proposed to the IETF are simulated to investigate the number of control messages required for setting up or reconfiguring LSPs over an actual routing protocol     

MPLS and traffic engineering in IP networks

Rapid growth and increasing requirements for service quality, reliability, and efficiency have made traffic engineering an essential consideration in the design and operation of large public Internet backbone networks. Internet traffic engineering addresses the issue of performance optimization of operational networks. A paramount objective of Internet traffic engineering is to facilitate the transport of IP traffic through a given network in the most efficient, reliable, and expeditious manner possible. Historically, traffic engineering in the Internet has been hampered by the limited functional capabilities of conventional IP technologies. Recent developments in multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) and differentiated services have opened up new possibilities to address some of the limitations of the conventional technologies. This article discusses the applications of MPLS to traffic engineering in IP networks     

Full band approach to tunneling in MOS structures

Using atomistic quantum mechanical tight-binding (TB) methods that include the full band structure, we study electron tunneling through three-dimensional models of n/sup +/-Si/SiO/sub 2//p-Si capacitors with thicknesses between 0.7 and 4.4 nm. We find that the microscopic oxide structure influences transmission coefficients and tunnel currents significantly. The best agreement with experimental current-thickness and current-voltage data is obtained for a model derived from the /spl beta/-cristobalite polytype of SiO/sub 2/ that has a fairly small conduction band mass of 0.34 m/sub 0/. Standard approximate effective mass-based methods reproduce the TB results only if an energy and oxide thickness dependence of the mass parameter is introduced.     

Capacity and flow assignment issues in MPLS networks

MPLS technology enables IP networks to accept the challenge raised by emerging communication paradigms. This paper describes a nonlinear model with path capacity as design variables and space priority as constraints. The analysis shows that the close‐form solution exists if traffic flows are allocated by an independent protocol. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley &Sons, Ltd.     

OAM mechanisms in MPLS layer 2 transport networks

This article describes OAM in MPLS layer 2 transport networks. MPLS networks used to transport layer 2 traffic are referred to as MPLS layer 2 transport networks. They may be used to connect legacy layer 2 networks and/or provide layer 2 service to a user over a MPLS network. As legacy layer 2 networks migrate to use MPLS for transport, the role of MPLS OAM mechanisms is becoming increasingly important. This is because the converged network must offer the same OAM functionality as existing layer 2 networks. This article emphasizes the importance of end-to-end OAM, while emulating existing layer 2 services using MPLS transport. End-to-end fault detection is described in the context of various layer 2 over MPLS transport network models. The article focuses on state-of-the-art MPLS label switched path and pseudo wire OAM mechanisms being developed by the IETF. This includes fault detection and isolation mechanisms such as LSP-Ping, bidirectional forwarding detection, and virtual circuit connectivity verification. The applicability of each of these mechanisms is given. In some cases it may be possible to carry layer 2 OAM cells end-to-end, while in other cases this may not be possible. The relationship between segment-based OAM mechanisms and end-to-end OAM is described for each of these cases.     

在MPLS网络中如何保证VoIP的QoS

在以IP为基础的网络中,IP网络上传送语音(VoIP)成为新一代语音系统的代表,但其业务质量因由IP网络承载而受到限制.多协议标签交换(MPLS)是当前被普遍看好的高速骨干网络技术,通过MPLS,第三层的路由可以得到第二层技术的很好补充,以保证端到端的服务质量(QoS).将MPLS的QoS特性与区分服务(DiffServ)相结合,可实现更优化的网络业务QoS.     

Operation, administration, and maintenance in MPLS networks

The boundaries between packet and circuit networks have long disappeared, with many traditional circuit-switched applications such as voice and video now being carried over packet-switched IP/MPLS or Ethernet networks. However, this transition has happened so fast that many OAM functions supported by circuit-switched networks such as SONET/SDH are still unmatched in packet networks. In order to match the quality sustained by circuit-switched networks, OAM functions must also be developed for such packet networks. A number of recent efforts have started to address OAM functions for IP/MPLS and Ethernet packet technologies. Service providers and carriers alike are the driving force behind the work, as there is general recognition that to generate sustained revenues, services must be efficiently managed. In this article we discuss issues in providing OAM features and capabilities for MPLS-based packet networks.     

Multisource multicasting in IP/MPLS over WDM networks

Multicasting applications such as multimedia conferencing, online multiplayer interactive games, and distance learning are becoming increasingly popular. With multiprotocol label switching, Internet protocol networks can offer quality of service and traffic engineering capabilities. This article introduces several approaches for multisource multicast sessions in the context of IP over WDM networks and evaluates their performance in terms of blocking probability, time complexity, and memory consumption. Our simulation study shows that among all the approaches, the newly proposed approach, known as one Bidirectional Tree with Just enough bandwidth reserved on each link of the tree, achieves the best overall performance.     

TEAM: A traffic engineering automated manager for DiffServ-based MPLS networks

In this article an automated manager called traffic engineering automated manager (TEAM) for DiffServ/MPLS networks is introduced, and its design and implementation details are discussed. TEAM is designed for complete automated management of an Internet domain. TEAM is an adaptive manager that provides the required quality of service to the users and reduces the congestion in the network. The former is achieved by reserving bandwidth resources for the requests and the latter by distributing the load efficiently. These goals are achieved by online measurements of the network state. TEAM is composed of a traffic engineering tool (TET), which adaptively manages the bandwidth and routes in the network, a measurement and performance evaluation tool (MPET), which measures important parameters in the network and inputs them to the TET, and a simulation tool (ST), which may be used by TET to consolidate its decisions. These three tools work in synergy to achieve the desired network operation objectives. The experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of TEAM as a network manager in different and unpredictable traffic conditions at the expense of a limited increase in the computational complexity and costs.     

Full service optical access networks: ATM transport on passiveoptical networks

Multimedia communication has become the driving force for installing broadband systems in the public network. Different alternative solutions have been presented to realize a broadband interactive access network, such as installing optical fiber or upgrading the existing copper network with ADSL for twisted pair or hybrid fiber coax for CATV networks. Among these alternatives, optical fiber access networks are seen as the most future-safe solution. Especially, passive optical networks prove to be a cost-effective way to introduce fiber into the access network. This article presents ATM-based transport on passive optical networks, starting with a current implementation of an ATM-PON (APON) system that has already been installed for various trials. It further describes the evolution of APON systems to high-splitting, long-range PONs. The increase in both number of subscribers and distance range is discussed in combination with some specific technological issues such as upstream burst mode optical amplification. Special emphasis is placed on the work carried out within the scope of the ACTS PLANET project     

MPLS网络中的自适应接入抢占策略

本文提出了一种在MPLS网络中进行自适应接入控制的抢占策略.该策略通过对已接入的低优先级LSP的QoS的降级来保证新接入的高优先级的LSP的接入请求.在进行降级时考虑了被降级的LSP的优先级、释放的带宽资源和LSP的降级比例.仿真结果表明,该抢占策略能提高网络的带宽利用率,减少LSP被重路由的代价.     

Distributed schemes for diverse path computation in multidomain MPLS networks

MPLS is currently used by several JSPs to carry some high-value traffic components, such as telephony over IP trunks and VPNs. For this type of traffic, service availability is a critical QoS dimension that needs to be protected from network failures. With MPLS-TE, this can be achieved by means of path protection schemes, where active and backup LSPs are routed along diverse paths. Besides protection, path diversity can be exploited for load balancing, another common means of QoS improvement. In order to preserve other QoS requirements, the paths must meet certain constraints (e.g., bandwidth availability, low load) and/or minimize some metric (e.g., hop count). This requires the ability to establish path diversity in an optimal way. In many cases of practical interest, the QoS traffic has an interdomain scope. This is the case for ToIP and VPN traffic between different carriers, or between different ASs owned by the same carrier, as found, for example, after corporate acquisitions or mergers. Therefore, path diversity is a requirement for interdomain traffic engineering. In this work we address path diversity in a multidomain network, where individual domains are capable of connection-oriented forwarding and endowed with an MPLS-TE control plane. For administrative and/or scalability reasons intradomain routing information is not disseminated externally, so dynamic path computation must be achieved by a distributed scheme based on interdomain collaboration. We briefly describe three alternative schemes recently proposed for interdomain diverse path computation, and quantitatively assess their performance with simulations over real ISP topologies.     

Optimizing IP networks in a hybrid IGP/MPLS environment

In this paper, we consider a traffic engineering (te) approach toip networks in a hybridigp/mpls environment. Thoughigp (Interior Gateway Protocol) routing has proven its scalability and reliability, effective traffic engineering has been difficult to achieve in public IP networks because of the limited functional capabilities of conventionalip technologies.mpls (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) on the one hand enhances the possibility to engineer traffic onip networks by allowing explicit routes. But on the other hand it suffers from the scalability (n-square) problem. Hybridigp/mpls approaches rely onip native routing as much as possible and usempls only if necessary. In this work we propose a novel hybrid traffic engineering method based on genetic algorithms, which can be considered as an offlinete approach to handle long or medium-term traffic variations in the range days, weeks or months. In our approach the maximum number of hops anlsp (Label Switched Path) may take and the number oflsps which are applied solely to improve the routing performance, are treated as constraints due to delay considerations and the complexity of management. We apply our method to the German scientific network (b-win) for which a traffic matrix is available and also to some other networks with a simple demand model. We will show results comparing this hybridigp/mpls routing scenario with the result of pureigp routing and that of a full meshmpls with and without traffic splitting.