Layer 2 Label Distribution for MPLS Access Scaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

In MPLS networks, the distribution of label bindings among routers is typically done using layer 3 protocols, which increases overhead and signalling complexity, especially in access networks with an explosion of edge devices, posing a scaling problem.

Innovation Solution

Using a layer 2 signalling protocol to distribute label bindings, particularly for connecting customer edge devices to a provider's network, allowing for automated label provisioning and avoiding costly layer 3 functions, especially in the access part of the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If layer 3 protocols are used to distribute label bindings among routers, then label distribution can be automated, but network overhead and signalling complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomated label provisioningVSAvoidsignalling complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the label distribution function from layer 3 protocols and implements it at layer 2 using MAC address-based label distribution mechanism. This separates the label distribution function from complex layer 3 routing protocols, maintaining automation while reducing signalling complexity and overhead in access networks.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a layer 2 intermediary mechanism that mediates label distribution between network elements. Instead of direct layer 3 protocol exchanges, labels are distributed through layer 2 forwarding tables and MAC address mappings, simplifying the signalling process while preserving automated label provisioning capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If layer 3 protocols are deployed in access networks with many edge devices, then automated label distribution is achieved, but scaling becomes problematic due to overhead

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelabel distribution efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions the label distribution mechanism from layer 3 (network layer) to layer 2 (data link layer), effectively changing the dimensional level of operation. This dimensionality change allows label distribution to scale more efficiently in access networks by utilizing MAC address tables and layer 2 forwarding mechanisms, reducing protocol overhead while maintaining productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Device complexity

If manual label distribution is used, then network control is simplified, but equipment overhead and configuration complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol plane complexityVSAvoiddeployment overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention enables network elements to automatically receive and process label information through layer 2 mechanisms. Network devices self-configure by receiving label distributions through their standard layer 2 interfaces without requiring manual configuration, thereby reducing deployment overhead while maintaining simple control plane architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8737395B2Method for accessing a network and network access device

Publication Date: 2014.05.27 ADTRAN NETWORKS SE

AI summary

A method is described for accessing a virtual private network over a packet switched network. The method includes the steps of sending, by a provider edge router, network labeling information about data packet labels to a network access device using a layer 2 network protocol.