MPLS Label Distribution via Context Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) architectures require signaling messages for label distribution, which is costly and inefficient due to geographical distribution of network elements and management efforts.
Innovation Solution
A method where the second Multiprotocol Label Switching network element determines the context of data packets using a predetermined algorithm and retrieves an unused label from the first network element, allowing subsequent packets to carry the same label, thereby eliminating the need for signaling messages in label distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If signaling messages are used for label distribution in MPLS architecture, then label binding agreement between peering Label Switch Routers can be achieved, but the geographical distribution of network elements and management effort increase cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The downstream LSR automatically determines the context of data packets using a predetermined algorithm and retrieves an unused label from the first network element without requiring signaling messages. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex signaling protocols while ensuring proper label binding agreement between peering LSRs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the label distribution function from the signaling message exchange process. Instead of using LDP or RSVP-TE signaling protocols, the system directly retrieves unused labels from the first network element and associates them with determined contexts, removing the intermediary signaling layer that adds complexity.
2Ease of operation
If manual configuration of label-switching tables is performed in each network element, then label distribution can be controlled, but the geographical distribution of network elements makes this solution not cost-efficient and requires significant management effort
Solution Approach 1:
Each downstream LSR automatically determines contexts and retrieves unused labels without manual configuration. The predetermined algorithm enables autonomous label distribution, eliminating the need for manual table configuration across geographically distributed network elements and significantly improving management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Labels are pre-prepared and made available in the network elements. When a data packet arrives, the downstream LSR can immediately retrieve an unused label without waiting for manual configuration or complex signaling exchanges, enabling rapid automatic label distribution.
3Reliability
If signaling protocols like LDP or RSVP-TE are used for label distribution, then label bindings can be established along routed paths, but the number of signaling messages increases overhead and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the signaling message exchange process from the label distribution mechanism. Instead of using LDP or RSVP-TE protocols that require multiple signaling messages for label binding establishment, the system directly retrieves unused labels and associates them with contexts, dramatically reducing overhead and improving efficiency while maintaining reliable label binding.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a Label distribution method for distributing a label between a first Multi-protocol Label Switching (MPLS) network element and a second peering MPLS network element in an MPLS network. The first MPLS network element adds an unused label to the first data-packet DP1 of the at least one data-packet of the single flow before forwarding the at least one data-packet of the single flow, the unused label not yet associated with or used for identifying a context of said single flow. The second MPLS network element subsequently determines a context for the unknown label retrieved from the data-packets, using a predetermined algorithm. The second MPLS element then couples the unused label and the context determined using the predetermined algorithm.