Extending BGP-LS to Advertise Layer 0 Topology

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current BGP-LS protocol limitations prevent the advertisement of Layer 0 topology information to Layer 3 networks, especially when non-IP networks are involved, hindering efficient integration and provisioning across different network domains.

Innovation Solution

The extension of the BGP-LS protocol to advertise Layer 0 topology information using optical extension messages, such as T, C, P, and L messages, allows for the exchange of topological information between optical and IP domains, enabling automated discovery and correlation of multi-layer network representations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the BGP-LS protocol is used for advertising topology information, then routing decisions can be made based on path and network policies, but the protocol cannot advertise Layer 0 topology information to Layer 3 networks when non-IP networks are involved

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to advertise topology information across network layersVSAvoidprotocol limitation preventing cross-layer information exchange

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the BGP-LS protocol to operate across multiple network layers (from Layer 3 to Layer 0), adding a vertical dimension to the protocol's capability. This allows topology information to be advertised across different network layers, enabling optical network topology to be visible to IP network routing decisions without requiring separate protocols for each layer.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If manual integration methods are used to connect Layer 0 and Layer 3 networks, then connections can be established between network domains, but human error and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of network integrationVSAvoidcomplexity of manual integration process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automated discovery and correlation of multi-layer network representations through the extended BGP-LS protocol. Network nodes automatically exchange topology information and establish connections without manual intervention, eliminating human error while reducing operational complexity. The protocol self-configures the cross-layer connectivity based on advertised topology data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9253041B2Advertising layer 0 network topology information to a layer 3 network

Publication Date: 2016.02.02 CISCO TECHNOLOGY INC

AI summary

In one embodiment, techniques are provided to generate a Border Gateway Protocol-Link State (BGP-LS) advertisement message comprising information configured to indicate topological information associated with a Layer 0 (L0) network, where the topological information includes information for connectivity within the L0 network that is available to a Layer 3 (L3) network. The advertisement message is sent to a node in the L3 network. The message sent from the L0 network is received at the node in the L3 network. The topological information in the message is analyzed in order to determine connections available to the L3 network, yet within the L0 network. A connection request is sent from the node in the L3 network to the L0 network and connections between the nodes in L3 network are established using available connections in the L0 network.