Static Pseudowire Dual Homing for Fast EVPN Convergence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ethernet Virtual Private Network (EVPN) technologies face complexity and slow convergence in multi-homing configurations, particularly in dual homing scenarios, requiring complex control plane mechanisms like RT-1, RT-3, and Split Horizon, which can lead to traffic drops and prolonged downtime.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a static pseudowire, such as Segment Routing over Internet Protocol version 6 (SRv6), between two Provider Edge (PE) routers for dual homing, utilizing Integrated Routing and Bridging (IRB) and service protection groups, to simplify the control plane and enable fast convergence by maintaining both active and standby ports operational, thus eliminating the need for additional protocols like VRRP/HSRP.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If EVPN control plane mechanisms (RT-1, RT-3, Split Horizon) are used in multi-homing configurations, then virtual multipoint bridged connectivity is achieved, but system complexity increases and convergence speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multi-homing problem into a simpler dual-homing configuration, dividing the complex control plane requirements into manageable components that can be handled by standard protocols without requiring specialized EVPN mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the complex EVPN control plane mechanisms (RT-1, RT-3, Split Horizon) from the dual-homing scenario, showing that these are unnecessary when using standard protocols with proper configuration, thereby simplifying the system while maintaining functionality
2Reliability
If EVPN control plane mechanisms are used in dual homing, then connectivity is maintained, but convergence time increases and traffic drops occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring static pseudowires and establishing backup paths before failures occur. The dual-homing configuration with static pseudowires ensures that alternative paths are ready and validated in advance, enabling immediate failover without waiting for control plane convergence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent skips the slow EVPN control plane convergence process by using data plane mechanisms. The static pseudowire configuration allows traffic to be rapidly switched over to backup paths without undergoing the lengthy BGP route advertisement and convergence processes inherent in EVPN
3Loss of time
If static pseudowire with dual homing is implemented, then convergence speed improves, but control plane simplification may limit adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent demonstrates universality by showing that standard protocols and mechanisms can serve multiple functions - providing both dual-homing connectivity and fast convergence without requiring specialized EVPN control plane features. The static pseudowire configuration is universally applicable to various dual-homing scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
A Provider Edge (PE) router includes a plurality of ports configured to connect to one or more Customer Edge (CE) devices, wherein the plurality of ports are in an Ethernet Virtual Private Network (EVPN) with a second PE router having a second plurality of ports; a static connection configured to connect to the second plurality of ports in the second PE router; and switching circuitry connected to and configured to switch traffic between the plurality of ports, the static connection, and an Internet Protocol (IP) interface connected to an external network, wherein the EVPN is confined to dual homing and protection functionality in the dual homing is performed based on settings in the switching circuitry.