Router Mediator for Seamless MPLS Label Allocation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In seamless multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) networks, the existing technologies face challenges in efficiently supporting MPLS on access nodes like DSLAMs and ONUs, which require upgrading to Layer 3 control planes, increasing complexity and costs due to the need for routing protocols and label allocation protocols.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) or Target-Label Distribution Protocol (T-LDP) messages to allocate labels in MPLS networks, allowing routers to obtain and configure pseudowire (PW) labels and flow labels without requiring access nodes to support Layer 3 control planes, thereby simplifying the configuration and reducing operational costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If access nodes (ONU/DSLAM) are upgraded to Layer 3 control plane to support MPLS, then MPLS functionality is achieved, but device complexity and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a router as an intermediary device between the access node and the core network. The router performs Label Distribution Protocol (LDP) sessions with the access node, enabling MPLS label allocation and management without requiring the access node to have full Layer 3 control plane capabilities. This mediator approach allows MPLS functionality to be achieved while keeping access nodes simple Layer 2 devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If access nodes support routing protocols and label allocation protocols, then MPLS label allocation is enabled, but operational costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The router acts as an intermediary that handles all complex routing protocol interactions and label allocation operations. The access node only needs to support simple LDP session establishment and label reception, while the router manages BGP, routing protocols, and complex label allocation logic. This division of labor significantly reduces operational complexity and costs at the access node level.
3Reliability
If all ONUs and DSLAMs are upgraded to support MPLS, then seamless MPLS network is achieved, but scalability is poor due to high costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the MPLS functionality into two parts: core network routers that have full MPLS and routing capabilities, and access nodes that only have simplified LDP label allocation capabilities. This segmentation allows the core network to maintain seamless MPLS operation while access nodes remain simple and scalable. Not all access nodes need full MPLS capability, only those requiring it.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the network are given different capabilities matched to their specific needs. Core network routers receive full MPLS functionality, while access nodes receive only the minimal LDP label allocation capability needed for their role. This localized quality assignment optimizes both network performance and scalability by avoiding unnecessary complexity in access nodes.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a method, apparatus, and system for allocating a label in a seamless multi-protocol label switching network, which greatly reduces the complexity of the access node device, effectively cuts down the operation costs for the operator, and enhances the scalability of the system. The method includes: obtaining label information of a first access node, where the label information comprises the pseudowire PW destination address of the first access node; and sending the label information to a second router by using a BGP message or a T-LDP message so that the second router configures a PW label and/or a flow label of the first access node to a second access node by using the access network configuration protocol according to the label information.