BIER Network Signaling Simplification Through Centralized PCECC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing BIER network technologies face challenges in simplifying label allocation and signaling mechanisms, particularly when using Path Computation Element as a Central Controller (PCECC), which are cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A signaling configuration method and apparatus are introduced to simplify label distribution and signaling in BIER networks by enabling a PCE and PCC to exchange PCECC capability support messages, allocate extended BIER network information, and confirm successful installation, optimizing the BIER network path setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional label distribution protocols (LDP, RSVP-TE, BGP, IGP) are used for BIER network, then label allocation and signaling mechanism can be established, but the complexity and cumbersome nature of the signaling mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the label allocation and path computation functions from the complex conventional protocols (LDP, RSVP-TE, BGP, IGP) and consolidates them into a centralized PCECC controller. This separation removes the cumbersome signaling mechanisms from network nodes, leaving only simplified BIER forwarding logic, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable label allocation through centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The PCECC controller is designed as a universal platform that handles multiple functions: path computation, label allocation, and signaling coordination for BIER networks. By consolidating these functions into a single controller, the patent eliminates the need for multiple specialized protocols and reduces signaling complexity across the network while ensuring reliable operation.
2Extent of automation
If PCECC is used for label allocation in BIER network, then centralized control is achieved, but the signaling mechanism remains cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts complex signaling operations from the PCECC controller by implementing direct BIER path computation and label allocation mechanisms. This allows the centralized controller to operate with simplified signaling protocols, maintaining automation while reducing operational complexity through direct control of BIER forwarding elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The BIER forwarding elements automatically receive and process path computation and label allocation instructions from the PCECC controller without requiring complex manual signaling configuration. The system enables self-service operation where network elements autonomously execute forwarding decisions based on centralized control instructions, simplifying operations while maintaining automation.
3Productivity
If multicast distribution tree construction is used, then point-to-multipoint data forwarding is achieved, but the cost and challenges in operation and maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of constructing complex multicast distribution trees and maintaining elaborate forwarding states, the patent inverts the approach by using simple unicast-based BIER forwarding with bit identifier. Each network node performs simple bit-based forwarding decisions rather than complex multicast state management, achieving data forwarding efficiency while dramatically reducing operational and maintenance complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the complex multicast distribution tree construction and state maintenance functions from the network operation. By replacing these with simplified BIER bit-based forwarding mechanisms, the system maintains efficient point-to-multipoint data forwarding while eliminating the need for complex multicast state management, thereby reducing operational and maintenance challenges.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a signaling configuration method and apparatus for a BIER network, and a storage medium. The signaling configuration method for a BIER network includes: informing, by a PCE and a PCC each other, of a PCECC capability support message, wherein the PCECC capability support message is configured for indicating that the establishment of an extended BIER network path is supported, and the PCC comprises each BFR in the BIER network; allocating, by the PCE, extended BIER network information to each BFR in the BIER network; and receiving, by the PCE, a message about successful installation of the extended BIER network information sent by the PCC.