Aggregated Link Loop Prevention via Label Identifier Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for preventing data packets from being transmitted via any link in an aggregated link within a communications network are inefficient due to the large number of tunnels and labels required, leading to significant memory and processing resource consumption.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a processor and memory that receives a label identifier associated with an aggregated link, allowing it to send a data packet via a separate link from the aggregated link based on the label identifier, thereby preventing the packet from being sent via the link it was received on, thus preventing loop formation in the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MPLS virtual links with labels are used to prevent data packets from being transmitted via any link in an aggregated link, then data packet loop prevention is achieved, but the number of tunnels and labels increases significantly, consuming large amounts of memory and processing resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the label identifier serve multiple functions: it identifies the aggregated link for routing decisions and simultaneously prevents loops by blocking transmission on the same aggregated link. This eliminates the need for separate loop prevention mechanisms, reducing the number of tunnels and labels required while maintaining reliable loop prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the loop prevention function with the existing MPLS label switching mechanism. Instead of using separate tunnels and labels for loop prevention, the solution combines these functions by using the label identifier to both route packets and prevent transmission on the same aggregated link, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If a separate tunnel and label are created for each aggregated link and destination network element set, then data packet routing control is improved, but memory and processing resources are significantly consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The label identifier is designed to serve multiple purposes: it identifies the source aggregated link for routing decisions and simultaneously acts as a loop prevention marker. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate routing control mechanisms, thereby maintaining ease of operation while reducing memory and processing resource consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter usage of the label identifier from merely identifying destination routes to also identifying source aggregated links for loop prevention. This parameter change allows the same label to serve dual purposes, reducing the quantity of routing control data needed while maintaining effective routing control.
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a memory, a communications interface and a processor. The processor is operatively coupled to the memory and the communications interface. The processor is configured to receive, at a first time, a label identifier associated with an aggregated link within the communications network via the communications interface. The aggregated link including a plurality of redundant links. The processor is configured to receive, at a second time after the first time, a data packet including the label identifier via the communications interface. The processor is configured to send at least a portion of the data packet via a first link separate from the aggregated link based on the label identifier. The processor is configured to not send the data packet via a link from the plurality of redundant links of the aggregated link based on the label identifier.