MPLS Multicast LSP Failure Detection Using Data Plane Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control plane based signaling mechanisms for failure detection in MPLS multicast networks are complex and slow, leading to unacceptable delays in switching to backup paths during node failures, particularly in real-time services like IPTV.
Innovation Solution
A data plane based signaling mechanism using heartbeat messages between head nodes and leaf nodes to quickly detect failures and switch traffic to backup paths, reducing detection and switchover times by utilizing unidirectional failure detection sessions and bidirectional forwarding detection protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If control plane based signaling mechanisms are used for failure detection, then the system can detect failures, but the detection and switchover time is long which is unacceptable for real-time services
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the control plane based signaling mechanism with a data plane based detection mechanism. Instead of using control plane messages for failure detection, the invention uses data plane traffic itself to carry detection information through bidirectional forwarding detection protocols, enabling faster failure detection and switchover suitable for real-time services
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes bidirectional forwarding detection sessions in advance between head nodes and leaf nodes before failures occur. These pre-configured detection sessions use data plane traffic to continuously monitor path health, allowing immediate failure detection without waiting for control plane signaling, thus reducing detection and switchover time
2Reliability
If pre-computation and establishment of backup paths is implemented, then service protection is provided, but the switchover delay remains long due to control plane processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes control plane based switchover with data plane based switchover. By embedding failure detection and switchover triggering within the data plane traffic flow using bidirectional forwarding detection protocols, the system achieves rapid service protection switching without the delays inherent in control plane processing
Solution Approach 2:
The detection mechanism uses the data plane traffic itself to detect failures and trigger switchover actions. The traffic carries detection information and the system automatically responds to failures through pre-configured data plane paths, enabling self-service protection without external control plane intervention
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the invention includes, in a root node along a secondary label switching path, a computer program product comprising computer executable instructions stored on a non-transitory medium that when executed by a processor cause the root node to perform the following: establish a first data plane based failure detection session having an inactive status along a first label switching path (LSP) with at least one leaf node, receive a predetermined number of notification messages from the leaf node, wherein the predetermined number of notification messages indicate the failure of a second data plane based failure detection session along a second LSP from a second processor to the leaf node, and change the status of the first data plane based failure detection session to active along the first LSP upon receipt of the predetermined number of notification messages.