MPLS Ring Signaling for Resilient Path Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) protocols are inefficient and complex when applied in ring-based access networks, lacking flexibility and scalability, particularly due to path protection mechanisms like RSVP-TE Fast re-route and LDP FRR.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of MPLS signaling mechanisms that allow for the specification and signaling of MPLS rings, enabling routers to automatically establish traffic-engineered label switch paths (LSPs) within ring networks, with built-in path protection and dynamic bandwidth allocation based on real-time traffic requirements, eliminating the need for separate protection paths or detours.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional MPLS protocols (RSVP-TE FRR, LDP FRR) are applied in ring-based access networks, then path protection mechanisms are provided, but device complexity and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the ring network into multiple unidirectional Label Switched Paths (LSPs), each traveling in a specific direction around the ring. This segmentation allows simple forwarding rules to be applied at each router without requiring complex protection protocols, as each LSP is independently routed in one direction only
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex protection mechanisms to handle failures, the patent inverts the approach by using the ring's bidirectional nature to its advantage - traffic can naturally flow in either direction around the ring, providing inherent protection without additional complexity. The simple rule is: if a link fails, traffic automatically routes the other way around the ring
2Productivity
If conventional MPLS protocols are applied in ring-based access networks, then traffic engineering is possible, but scalability and flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal ring LSP structure that can serve multiple functions simultaneously - traffic engineering, protection, and flexible routing. The same ring LSP infrastructure supports different traffic flows with different priorities and destinations, making the system adaptable to various access network scenarios without requiring protocol modifications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic bandwidth allocation and flexible LSP establishment within the ring network. Routers can dynamically adjust traffic flows, add or remove LSPs, and modify bandwidth allocations based on real-time network conditions and service requirements, providing scalability without complex reconfiguration protocols
3Reliability
If separate protection paths or bypass LSPs are implemented in ring networks, then path protection is enhanced, but device complexity and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the working LSP and protection capabilities into a single unified ring LSP structure. Instead of maintaining separate working and protection paths, the ring LSP inherently provides both functions by allowing traffic to flow in either direction around the ring, eliminating the need for separate protection path configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The ring LSP provides self-protection through its bidirectional nature. When a link failure is detected, the system automatically routes traffic in the opposite direction without requiring manual intervention or complex protection switching protocols. The structure itself provides the protection service
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described for specifying and constructing multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) rings. Routers may signal membership within MPLS rings and automatically establish ring-based label switch paths (LSPs) as components of the MPLS rings for packet transport within ring networks. In one example, a router includes a processor configured to output Label Distribution Protocol (LDP) messages, as described herein, to establish an MPLS ring having a plurality of ring LSPs. Each of the ring LSPs is configured to transport MPLS packets around the ring network to a different one of the routers operating as an egress router for the respective ring LSP. Moreover, each of the ring LSPs comprises two counter-rotating multipoint-to-point (MP2P) LSPs for which any of the routers can operate as an ingress to source packet traffic into the ring LSP for transport to the respective egress router for the ring LSP.