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diff --git a/doc/rfc/rfc5339.txt b/doc/rfc/rfc5339.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6b8b31b --- /dev/null +++ b/doc/rfc/rfc5339.txt @@ -0,0 +1,1403 @@ + + + + + + +Network Working Group JL. Le Roux, Ed. +Request for Comments: 5339 France Telecom +Category: Informational D. Papadimitriou, Ed. + Alcatel-Lucent + September 2008 + + + Evaluation of Existing GMPLS Protocols + against Multi-Layer and Multi-Region Networks (MLN/MRN) + +Status of This Memo + + This memo provides information for the Internet community. It does + not specify an Internet standard of any kind. Distribution of this + memo is unlimited. + +Abstract + + This document provides an evaluation of Generalized Multiprotocol + Label Switching (GMPLS) protocols and mechanisms against the + requirements for Multi-Layer Networks (MLNs) and Multi-Region + Networks (MRNs). In addition, this document identifies areas where + additional protocol extensions or procedures are needed to satisfy + these requirements, and provides guidelines for potential extensions. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 1] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +Table of Contents + + 1. Introduction ....................................................3 + 1.1. Conventions Used in This Document ..........................4 + 2. MLN/MRN Requirements Overview ...................................4 + 3. Analysis ........................................................5 + 3.1. Aspects of Multi-Layer Networks ............................5 + 3.1.1. Support for Virtual Network Topology + Reconfiguration .....................................5 + 3.1.1.1. Control of FA-LSPs Setup/Release ...........5 + 3.1.1.2. Virtual TE Links ...........................6 + 3.1.1.3. Traffic Disruption Minimization + during FA Release ..........................8 + 3.1.1.4. Stability ..................................8 + 3.1.2. Support for FA-LSP Attribute Inheritance ............9 + 3.1.3. FA-LSP Connectivity Verification ....................9 + 3.1.4. Scalability .........................................9 + 3.1.5. Operations and Management of the MLN/MRN ...........10 + 3.1.5.1. MIB Modules ...............................10 + 3.1.5.2. OAM .......................................11 + 3.2. Specific Aspects of Multi-Region Networks .................12 + 3.2.1. Support for Multi-Region Signaling .................12 + 3.2.2. Advertisement of Adjustment Capacities .............13 + 4. Evaluation Conclusion ..........................................16 + 4.1. Traceability of Requirements ..............................16 + 5. Security Considerations ........................................20 + 6. Acknowledgments ................................................20 + 7. References .....................................................21 + 7.1. Normative References ......................................21 + 7.2. Informative References ....................................21 + 8. Contributors' Addresses ........................................23 + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 2] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +1. Introduction + + Generalized MPLS (GMPLS) extends MPLS to handle multiple switching + technologies: packet switching, layer-2 switching, TDM (Time Division + Multiplexing) switching, wavelength switching, and fiber switching + (see [RFC3945]). The Interface Switching Capability (ISC) concept is + introduced for these switching technologies and is designated as + follows: PSC (Packet Switch Capable), L2SC (Layer-2 Switch Capable), + TDM capable, LSC (Lambda Switch Capable), and FSC (Fiber Switch + Capable). The representation, in a GMPLS control plane, of a + switching technology domain is referred to as a region [RFC4206]. A + switching type describes the ability of a node to forward data of a + particular data plane technology, and uniquely identifies a network + region. + + A data plane switching layer describes a data plane switching + granularity level. For example, LSC, TDM VC-11 and TDM VC-4-64c are + three different layers. [RFC5212] defines a Multi-Layer Network + (MLN) to be a Traffic Engineering (TE) domain comprising multiple + data plane switching layers either of the same ISC (e.g., TDM) or + different ISC (e.g., TDM and PSC) and controlled by a single GMPLS + control plane instance. [RFC5212] further defines a particular case + of MLNs. A Multi-Region Network (MRN) is defined as a TE domain + supporting at least two different switching types (e.g., PSC and + TDM), either hosted on the same device or on different ones, and + under the control of a single GMPLS control plane instance. + + The objectives of this document are to evaluate existing GMPLS + mechanisms and protocols ([RFC3945], [RFC4202], [RFC3471], [RFC3473]) + against the requirements for MLNs and MRNs, defined in [RFC5212]. + From this evaluation, we identify several areas where additional + protocol extensions and modifications are required in order to meet + these requirements, and we provide guidelines for potential + extensions. + + A summary of MLN/MRN requirements is provided in Section 2. Then + Section 3 evaluates whether current GMPLS protocols and mechanisms + meet each of these requirements. When the requirements are not met + by existing protocols, the document identifies whether the required + mechanisms could rely on GMPLS protocols and procedure extensions, or + whether it is entirely out of the scope of GMPLS protocols. + + Note that this document specifically addresses GMPLS control plane + functionality for MLN/MRN in the context of a single administrative + control plane partition. Partitions of the control plane where + separate layers are under distinct administrative control are for + future study. + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 3] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + This document uses terminologies defined in [RFC3945], [RFC4206], and + [RFC5212]. + +1.1. Conventions Used in This Document + + The key words "MUST", "MUST NOT", "REQUIRED", "SHALL", "SHALL NOT", + "SHOULD", "SHOULD NOT", "RECOMMENDED", "MAY", and "OPTIONAL" in this + document are to be interpreted as described in [RFC2119]. + +2. MLN/MRN Requirements Overview + + Section 5 of [RFC5212] lists a set of functional requirements for + Multi-Layer/Region Networks (MLN/MRN). These requirements are + summarized below, and a mapping with sub-sections of [RFC5212] is + provided. + + Here is the list of requirements that apply to MLN (and thus to MRN): + + - Support for robust Virtual Network Topology (VNT) reconfiguration. + This implies the following requirements: + + - Optimal control of Forwarding Adjacency Label Switched Path + (FA-LSP) setup and release (Section 5.8.1 of [RFC5212]); + + - Support for virtual TE links (Section 5.8.2 of [RFC5212]); + + - Minimization of traffic disruption during FA-LSP release + (Section 5.5 of [RFC5212]); + + - Stability (Section 5.4 of [RFC5212]); + + - Support for FA-LSP attribute inheritance (Section 5.6 of + [RFC5212]); + + - Support for FA-LSP data plane connectivity verification (Section + 5.9 of [RFC5212]); + + - MLN Scalability (Section 5.3 of [RFC5212]); + + - MLN Operations and Management (OAM) (Section 5.10 of [RFC5212]); + + Here is the list of requirements that apply to MRN only: + + - Support for Multi-Region signaling (Section 5.7 of [RFC5212]); + + - Advertisement of the adjustment capacity (Section 5.2 of + [RFC5212]); + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 4] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +3. Analysis + +3.1. Aspects of Multi-Layer Networks + +3.1.1. Support for Virtual Network Topology Reconfiguration + + A set of lower-layer FA-LSPs provides a Virtual Network Topology + (VNT) to the upper-layer [RFC5212]. By reconfiguring the VNT (FA-LSP + setup/release) according to traffic demands between source and + destination node pairs within a layer, network performance factors + (such as maximum link utilization and residual capacity of the + network) can be optimized. Such optimal VNT reconfiguration implies + several mechanisms that are analyzed in the following sections. + + Note that the VNT approach is just one possible approach to + performing inter-layer Traffic Engineering. + +3.1.1.1. Control of FA-LSPs Setup/Release + + In a Multi-Layer Network, FA-LSPs are created, modified, and released + periodically according to the change of incoming traffic demands from + the upper layer. + + This implies a TE mechanism that takes into account the demands + matrix, the TE topology, and potentially the current VNT, in order to + compute and setup a new VNT. + + Several functional building blocks are required to support such a TE + mechanism: + + - Discovery of TE topology and available resources. + + - Collection of upper-layer traffic demands. + + - Policing and scheduling of VNT resources with regard to traffic + demands and usage (that is, decision to setup/release FA-LSPs). + The functional component in charge of this function is called a VNT + Manager (VNTM) [PCE-INTER]. + + - VNT Path Computation according to TE topology, potentially taking + into account the old (existing) VNT in order to minimize changes. + The functional component in charge of VNT computation may be + distributed on network elements or may be performed on an external + element (such as a Path Computation Element (PCE), [RFC4655]). + + - FA-LSP setup/release. + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 5] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + GMPLS routing protocols provide TE topology discovery. GMPLS + signaling protocols allow setting up/releasing FA-LSPs. + + VNTM functions (resources policing/scheduling, decision to + setup/release FA-LSPs, FA-LSP configuration) are out of the scope of + GMPLS protocols. Such functionalities can be achieved directly on + layer-border Label Switching Routers (LSRs), or through one or more + external tools. When an external tool is used, an interface is + required between the VNTM and the network elements so as to + setup/release FA-LSPs. This could use standard management interfaces + such as [RFC4802]. + + The set of traffic demands of the upper layer is required for the VNT + Manager to take decisions to setup/release FA-LSPs. Such traffic + demands include satisfied demands, for which one or more upper-layer + LSP have been successfully setup, as well as unsatisfied demands and + future demands, for which no upper layer LSP has been setup yet. The + collection of such information is beyond the scope of GMPLS + protocols. Note that it may be partially inferred from parameters + carried in GMPLS signaling or advertised in GMPLS routing. + + Finally, the computation of FA-LSPs that form the VNT can be + performed directly on layer-border LSRs or on an external element + (such as a Path Computation Element (PCE), [RFC4655]), and this is + independent of the location of the VNTM. + + Hence, to summarize, no GMPLS protocol extensions are required to + control FA-LSP setup/release. + +3.1.1.2. Virtual TE Links + + A virtual TE link is a TE link between two upper layer nodes that is + not actually associated with a fully provisioned FA-LSP in a lower + layer. A virtual TE link represents the potentiality to setup an + FA-LSP in the lower layer to support the TE link that has been + advertised. A virtual TE link is advertised as any TE link, + following the rules in [RFC4206] defined for fully provisioned TE + links. In particular, the flooding scope of a virtual TE link is + within an IGP area, as is the case for any TE link. + + If an upper-layer LSP attempts (through a signaling message) to make + use of a virtual TE link, the underlying FA-LSP is immediately + signaled and provisioned (provided there are available resources in + the lower layer) in the process known as triggered signaling. + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 6] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + The use of virtual TE links has two main advantages: + + - Flexibility: allows the computation of an LSP path using TE links + without needing to take into account the actual provisioning status + of the corresponding FA-LSP in the lower layer; + + - Stability: allows stability of TE links in the upper layer, while + avoiding wastage of bandwidth in the lower layer, as data plane + connections are not established until they are actually needed. + + Virtual TE links are setup/deleted/modified dynamically, according to + the change of the (forecast) traffic demand, operator's policies for + capacity utilization, and the available resources in the lower layer. + + The support of virtual TE links requires two main building blocks: + + - A TE mechanism for dynamic modification of virtual TE link + topology; + + - A signaling mechanism for the dynamic setup and deletion of virtual + TE links. Setting up a virtual TE link requires a signaling + mechanism that allows an end-to-end association between virtual TE + link end points with the purpose of exchanging link identifiers as + well as some TE parameters. + + The TE mechanism responsible for triggering/policing dynamic + modification of virtual TE links is out of the scope of GMPLS + protocols. + + Current GMPLS signaling does not allow setting up and releasing + virtual TE links. Hence, GMPLS signaling must be extended to support + virtual TE links. + + We can distinguish two options for setting up virtual TE links: + + - The Soft FA approach consists of setting up the FA-LSP in the + control plane without actually activating cross connections in the + data plane. On the one hand, this requires state maintenance on + all transit LSRs (N square issue), but on the other hand, this may + allow for some admission control. Indeed, when a Soft FA is + activated, the resources may no longer be available for use by + other Soft FAs that have common links. These Soft FA will be + dynamically released, and corresponding virtual TE links will be + deleted. The Soft FA LSPs may be setup using procedures similar to + those described in [RFC4872] for setting up secondary LSPs. + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 7] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - The remote association approach simply consists of exchanging + virtual TE link IDs and parameters directly between TE link end + points. This does not require state maintenance on transit LSRs, + but reduces admission control capabilities. Such an association + between virtual TE link end points may rely on extensions to the + Resource Reservation Protocol - Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) + Automatically Switched Optical Network (ASON) call procedure + [RFC4974]. + + Note that the support of virtual TE links does not require any GMPLS + routing extension. + +3.1.1.3. Traffic Disruption Minimization during FA Release + + Before deleting a given FA-LSP, all nested LSPs have to be rerouted + and removed from the FA-LSP to avoid traffic disruption. The + mechanisms required here are similar to those required for graceful + deletion of a TE link. A Graceful TE link deletion mechanism allows + for the deletion of a TE link without disrupting traffic of TE-LSPs + that were using the TE link. + + Hence, GMPLS routing and/or signaling extensions are required to + support graceful deletion of TE links. This may utilize the + procedures described in [GR-SHUT]: a transit LSR notifies a head-end + LSR that a TE link along the path of an LSP is going to be torn down, + and also withdraws the bandwidth on the TE link so that it is not + used for new LSPs. + +3.1.1.4. Stability + + The stability of upper-layer LSP may be impaired if the VNT undergoes + frequent changes. In this context, robustness of the VNT is defined + as the capability to smooth the impact of these changes and avoid + their subsequent propagation. + + Guaranteeing VNT stability is out of the scope of GMPLS protocols and + relies entirely on the capability of the TE and VNT management + algorithms to minimize routing perturbations. This requires that the + algorithms take into account the old VNT when computing a new VNT, + and try to minimize the perturbation. + + Note that a full mesh of lower-layer LSPs may be created between + every pair of border nodes between the upper and lower layers. The + merit of a full mesh of lower-layer LSPs is that it provides + stability to the upper-layer routing. That is, the forwarding table + used in the upper layer is not impacted if the VNT undergoes changes. + Further, there is always full reachability and immediate access to + bandwidth to support LSPs in the upper layer. But it also has + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 8] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + significant drawbacks, since it requires the maintenance of n^2 + RSVP-TE sessions (where n is the number of border nodes), which may + be quite CPU- and memory-consuming (scalability impact). Also, this + may lead to significant bandwidth wastage. Note that the use of + virtual TE links solves the bandwidth wastage issue, and may reduce + the control plane overload. + +3.1.2. Support for FA-LSP Attribute Inheritance + + When an FA TE Link is advertised, its parameters are inherited from + the parameters of the FA-LSP, and specific inheritance rules are + applied. + + This relies on local procedures and policies and is out of the scope + of GMPLS protocols. Note that this requires that both head-end and + tail-end of the FA-LSP are driven by same policies. + +3.1.3. FA-LSP Connectivity Verification + + Once fully provisioned, FA-LSP liveliness may be achieved by + verifying its data plane connectivity. + + FA-LSP connectivity verification relies on technology-specific + mechanisms (e.g., for SDH using G.707 and G.783; for MPLS using + Bidrectional Forwarding Detection (BFD); etc.) as for any other LSP. + Hence, this requirement is out of the scope of GMPLS protocols. + + The GMPLS protocols should provide mechanisms for the coordination of + data link verification in the upper-layer network where data links + are lower-layer LSPs. + + o GMPLS signaling allows an LSP to be put into 'test' mode + [RFC3473]. + o The Link Management Protocol [RFC4204] is a targeted protocol + and can be run end-to-end across lower-layer LSPs. + o Coordination of testing procedures in different layers is an + operational matter. + +3.1.4. Scalability + + As discussed in [RFC5212]), MRN/MLN routing mechanisms must be + designed to scale well with an increase of any of the following: + - Number of nodes + - Number of TE links (including FA-LSPs) + - Number of LSPs + - Number of regions and layers + - Number of Interface Switching Capability Descriptors (ISCDs) per + TE link. + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 9] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + GMPLS routing provides the necessary advertisement functions and is + based on IETF-designed IGPs. These are known to scale relatively + well with the number of nodes and links. Where there are multiple + regions or layers, there are two possibilities. + + 1. If a single routing instance distributes information about + multiple network layers, the effect is no more than to increase + the number of nodes and links in the network. + + 2. If the MLN is fully integrated (i.e., constructed from hybrid + nodes), there is an increase in the number of nodes and links + (as just mentioned), and also a potential increase in the + amount of ISCD information advertised per link. This is a + relatively small amount of information (e.g., 36 bytes in OSPF + [RFC4203]) per switching type, and each interface is unlikely + to have more than two or three switching types. + + The number of LSPs in a lower layer that are advertised as TE links + may impact the scaling of the routing protocol. A full mesh of FA- + LSPs in the lower layer would lead to n^2 TE links, where n is the + number of layer-border LSRs. This must be taken into consideration + in the VNT management process. This is an operational matter beyond + the scope of GMPLS protocols. + + Since it requires the maintenance of n^2 RSVP-TE sessions (which may + be quite CPU- and memory-consuming), a full mesh of LSPs in the lower + layer may impact the scalability of GMPLS signaling. The use of + virtual TE links may reduce the control plane overload (see Section + 3.1.1.2). + +3.1.5. Operations and Management of the MLN/MRN + + [RFC5212] identifies various requirements for effective management + and operation of the MLN. Some features already exist within the + GMPLS protocol set, some more are under development, and some + requirements are not currently addressed and will need new + development work in order to support them. + +3.1.5.1. MIB Modules + + MIB modules have been developed to model and control GMPLS switches + [RFC4803] and to control and report on the operation of the signaling + protocol [RFC4802]. These may be successfully used to manage the + operation of a single instance of the control plane protocols that + operate across multiple layers. + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 10] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + [RFC4220] provides a MIB module for managing TE links, and this may + be particularly useful in the context of the MLN because LSPs in the + lower layers are made available as TE links in the higher layer. + + The traffic engineering database provides a repository for all + information about the existence and current status of TE links within + a network. This information is typically flooded by the routing + protocol operating within the network, and is used when LSP routes + are computed. [TED-MIB] provides a way to inspect the TED to view + the TE links at the different layers of the MLN. + + As observed in [RFC5212], although it would be possible to manage the + MLN using only the existing MIB modules, a further MIB module could + be produced to coordinate the management of separate network layers + in order to construct a single MLN entity. Such a MIB module would + effectively link together entries in the MIB modules already + referenced. + +3.1.5.2. OAM + + At the time of writing, the development of OAM tools for GMPLS + networks is at an early stage. GMPLS OAM requirements are addressed + in [GMPLS-OAM]. + + In general, the lower layer network technologies contain their own + technology-specific OAM processes (for example, SDH/SONET, Ethernet, + and MPLS). In these cases, it is not necessary to develop additional + OAM processes, but GMPLS procedures may be desirable to coordinate + the operation and configuration of these OAM processes. + + [ETH-OAM] describes some early ideas for this function, but more work + is required to generalize the technique to be applicable to all + technologies and to MLN. In particular, an OAM function operating + within a server layer must be controllable from the client layer, and + client layer control plane mechanisms must map and enable OAM in the + server layer. + + Where a GMPLS-controlled technology does not contain its own OAM + procedures, this is usually because the technology cannot support + in-band OAM (for example, Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) + networks). In these cases, there is very little that a control plane + can add to the OAM function since the presence of a control plane + cannot make any difference to the physical characteristics of the + data plane. However, the existing GMPLS protocol suite does provide + a set of tools that can help to verify the data plane through the + control plane. These tools are equally applicable to network + technologies that do contain their own OAM. + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 11] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - Route recording is available through the GMPLS signaling protocol + [RFC3473], making it possible to check the route reported by the + control plane against the expected route. This mechanism also + includes the ability to record and report the interfaces and labels + used for the LSP at each hop of its path. + + - The status of TE links is flooded by the GMPLS routing protocols + [RFC4203] and [RFC4205] making it possible to detect changes in the + available resources in the network as an LSP is set up. + + - The GMPLS signaling protocol [RFC3473] provides a technique to + place an LSP into a "test" mode so that end-to-end characteristics + (such as power levels) may be sampled and modified. + + - The Link Management Protocol [RFC4204] provides a mechanism for + fault isolation on an LSP. + + - GMPLS signaling [RFC3473] provides a Notify message that can be + used to report faults and issues across the network. The message + includes scaling features to allow one message to report the + failure of multiple LSPs. + + - Extensions to GMPLS signaling [RFC4783] enable alarm information to + be collected and distributed along the path of an LSP for more easy + coordination and correlation. + +3.2. Specific Aspects of Multi-Region Networks + +3.2.1. Support for Multi-Region Signaling + + There are actually several cases where a transit node could choose + between multiple Switching Capabilities (SCs) to be used for a + lower-region FA-LSP: + + - Explicit Route Object (ERO) expansion with loose hops: The transit + node has to expand the path, and may have to select among a set of + lower-region SCs. + + - Multi-SC TE link: When the ERO of an FA LSP, included in the ERO of + an upper-region LSP, comprises a multi-SC TE link, the region + border node has to select among these SCs. + + Existing GMPLS signaling procedures do not allow solving this + ambiguous choice of the SC that may be used along a given path. + + Hence, an extension to GMPLS signaling has to be defined to indicate + the SC(s) that can be used and the SC(s) that cannot be used along + the path. + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 12] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +3.2.2. Advertisement of Adjustment Capacities + + In the MRN context, nodes supporting more than one switching + capability on at least one interface are called hybrid nodes + [RFC5212]. Conceptually, hybrid nodes can be viewed as containing at + least two distinct switching elements interconnected by internal + links that provide adjustment between the supported switching + capabilities. These internal links have finite capacities and must + be taken into account when computing the path of a multi-region TE- + LSP. The advertisement of the adjustment capacities is required, as + it provides critical information when performing multi-region path + computation. + + The term "adjustment capacity" refers to the property of a hybrid + node to interconnect different switching capabilities it provides + through its external interfaces [RFC5212]. This information allows + path computation to select an end-to-end multi-region path that + includes links of different switching capabilities that are joined by + LSRs that can adapt the signal between the links. + + Figure 1a below shows an example of a hybrid node. The hybrid node + has two switching elements (matrices), which support TDM and PSC + switching, respectively. The node has two PSC and TDM ports (Port1 + and Port2, respectively). It also has an internal link connecting + the two switching elements. + + The two switching elements are internally interconnected in such a + way that it is possible to terminate some of the resources of the TDM + Port2; also, they can provide adjustment of PSC traffic that is + received/sent over the internal PSC interface (#b). Two ways are + possible to set up PSC LSPs (Port1 or Port2). Available resources + advertisement (e.g., Unreserved and Min/Max LSP Bandwidth) should + cover both ways. + + Network element + ............................. + : -------- : + PSC : | PSC | : + Port1-------------<->---|#a | : + : +--<->---|#b | : + : | -------- : + : | ---------- : + TDM : +--<->--|#c TDM | : + Port2 ------------<->--|#d | : + : ---------- : + :............................ + + Figure 1a. Hybrid node. + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 13] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + Port1 and Port2 can be grouped together thanks to internal Dense + Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), to result in a single + interface: Link1. This is illustrated in Figure 1b below. + + Network element + ............................. + : -------- : + : | PSC | : + : | | : + : --|#a | : + : | | #b | : + : | -------- : + : | | : + : | ---------- : + : /| | | #c | : + : | |-- | | : + Link1 ========| | | TDM | : + : | |----|#d | : + : \| ---------- : + :............................ + + Figure 1b. Hybrid node. + + Let's assume that all interfaces are STM16 (with VC4-16c capable as + Max LSP bandwidth). After setting up several PSC LSPs via port #a + and setting up and terminating several TDM LSPs via port #d and port + #b, a capacity of only 155 Mb is still available on port #b. + However, a 622 Mb capacity remains on port #a, and VC4-5c capacity + remains on port #d. + + When computing the path for a new VC4-4c TDM LSP, one must know that + this node cannot terminate this LSP, as there is only a 155 Mb + capacity still available for TDM-PSC adjustment. Hence, the TDM-PSC + adjustment capacity must be advertised. + + With current GMPLS routing [RFC4202], this advertisement is possible + if link bundling is not used and if two TE links are advertised for + Link1. + + We would have the following TE link advertisements: + + TE link 1 (Port1): + - ISCD sub-TLV: PSC with Max LSP bandwidth = 622 Mb + - Unreserved bandwidth = 622 Mb. + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 14] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + TE link 2 (Port2): + - ISCD #1 sub-TLV: TDM with Max LSP bandwidth = VC4-4c, + - ISCD #2 sub-TLV: PSC with Max LSP bandwidth = 155 Mb, + - Unreserved bandwidth (equivalent): 777 Mb. + + The ISCD #2 in TE link 2 actually represents the TDM-PSC adjustment + capacity. + + However, if for obvious scalability reasons, link bundling is done, + then the adjustment capacity information is lost with current GMPLS + routing, as we have the following TE link advertisement: + + TE link 1 (Port1 + Port2): + - ISCD #1 sub-TLV: TDM with Max LSP bandwidth = VC4-4c, + - ISCD #2 sub-TLV: PSC with Max LSP bandwidth = 622 Mb, + - Unreserved bandwidth (equivalent): 1399 Mb. + + With such a TE link advertisement, an element computing the path of a + VC4-4c LSP cannot know that this LSP cannot be terminated on the + node. + + Thus, current GMPLS routing can support the advertisement of the + adjustment capacities, but this precludes performing link bundling + and thus faces significant scalability limitations. + + Hence, GMPLS routing must be extended to meet this requirement. This + could rely on the advertisement of the adjustment capacities as a new + TE link attribute (that would complement the Interface Switching + Capability Descriptor TE link attribute). + + Note: Multiple ISCDs MAY be associated with a single switching + capability. This can be performed to provide (e.g., for TDM + interfaces) the Min/Max LSP Bandwidth associated to each layer (or + set of layers) for that switching capability. For example, an + interface associated to TDM switching capability and supporting VC-12 + and VC-4 switching can be associated to one ISCD sub-TLV or two ISCD + sub-TLVs. In the first case, the Min LSP Bandwidth is set to VC-12 + and the Max LSP Bandwidth to VC-4. In the second case, the Min LSP + Bandwidth is set to VC-12 and the Max LSP Bandwidth to VC-12, in the + first ISCD sub-TLV; and the Min LSP Bandwidth is set to VC-4 and the + Max LSP Bandwidth to VC-4, in the second ISCD sub-TLV. Hence, in the + first case, as long as the Min LSP Bandwidth is set to VC-12 (and not + VC-4), and in the second case, as long as the first ISCD sub-TLV is + advertised, there is sufficient capacity across that interface to + setup a VC-12 LSP. + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 15] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +4. Evaluation Conclusion + + Most of the required MLN/MRN functions will rely on mechanisms and + procedures that are out of the scope of the GMPLS protocols, and thus + do not require any GMPLS protocol extensions. They will rely on + local procedures and policies, and on specific TE mechanisms and + algorithms. + + As regards Virtual Network Topology (VNT) computation and + reconfiguration, specific TE mechanisms need to be defined, but these + mechanisms are out of the scope of GMPLS protocols. + + Six areas for extensions of GMPLS protocols and procedures have been + identified: + + - GMPLS signaling extension for the setup/deletion of the virtual TE + links; + + - GMPLS signaling extension for graceful TE link deletion; + + - GMPLS signaling extension for constrained multi-region signaling + (SC inclusion/exclusion); + + - GMPLS routing extension for the advertisement of the adjustment + capacities of hybrid nodes. + + - A MIB module for coordination of other MIB modules being operated + in separate layers. + + - GMPLS signaling extensions for the control and configuration of + technology-specific OAM processes. + +4.1. Traceability of Requirements + + This section provides a brief cross-reference to the requirements set + out in [RFC5212] so that it is possible to verify that all of the + requirements listed in that document have been examined in this + document. + + - Path computation mechanism should be able to compute paths and + handle topologies consisting of any combination of (simplex) nodes + ([RFC5212], Section 5.1). + o Path computation mechanisms are beyond the scope of protocol + specifications, and out of scope for this document. + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 16] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - A hybrid node should maintain resources on its internal links + ([RFC5212], Section 5.2). + o This is an implementation requirement and is beyond the scope of + protocol specifications, and it is out of scope for this document. + + - Path computation mechanisms should be prepared to use the + availability of termination/adjustment resources as a constraint in + path computation ([RFC5212], Section 5.2). + o Path computation mechanisms are beyond the scope of protocol + specifications, and out of scope for this document. + + - The advertisement of a node's ability to terminate lower-region + LSPs and to forward traffic in the upper-region (adjustment + capability) is required ([RFC5212], Section 5.2). + o See Section 3.2.2 of this document. + + - The path computation mechanism should support the coexistence of + upper-layer links directly connected to upper-layer switching + elements, and upper-layer links connected through internal links + between upper-layer and lower-layer switching elements ([RFC5212], + Section 5.2). + o Path computation mechanisms are beyond the scope of protocol + specifications, and out of scope for this document. + + - MRN/MLN routing mechanisms must be designed to scale well with an + increase of any of the following: + - Number of nodes + - Number of TE links (including FA-LSPs) + - Number of LSPs + - Number of regions and layers + - Number of ISCDs per TE link. + ([RFC5212], Section 5.3). + o See Section 3.1.4 of this document. + + - Design of the routing protocols must not prevent TE information + filtering based on ISCDs ([RFC5212], Section 5.3). + o All advertised information carries the ISCD, and so a receiving + node may filter as required. + + - The path computation mechanism and the signaling protocol should be + able to operate on partial TE information, ([RFC5212], Section + 5.3). + o Path computation mechanisms are beyond the scope of protocol + specifications, and out of scope for this document. + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 17] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - Protocol mechanisms must be provided to enable creation, deletion, + and modification of LSPs triggered through operational actions + ([RFC5212], Section 5.4). + o Such mechanisms are standard in GMPLS signaling [RFC3473]. + + - Protocol mechanisms should be provided to enable similar functions + triggered by adjacent layers ([RFC5212], Section 5.4). + o Such mechanisms are standard in GMPLS signaling [RFC3473]. + + - Protocol mechanisms may be provided to enable adaptation to changes + such as traffic demand, topology, and network failures. Routing + robustness should be traded with adaptability of those changes + ([RFC5212], Section 5.4). + o See Section 3.1.1 of this document. + + - Reconfiguration of the VNT must be as non-disruptive as possible + and must be under the control of policy configured by the operator + ([RFC5212], Section 5.5). + o See Section 3.1.1.3 of this document + + - Parameters of a TE link in an upper layer should be inherited from + the parameters of the lower-layer LSP that provides the TE link, + based on polices configured by the operator ([RFC5212], Section + 5.6). + o See Section 3.1.2 of this document. + + - The upper-layer signaling request may contain an ERO that includes + only hops in the upper layer ([RFC5212], Section 5.7). + o Standard for GMPLS signaling [RFC3473]. See also Section 3.2.1. + + - The upper-layer signaling request may contain an ERO specifying the + lower layer FA-LSP route ([RFC5212], Section 5.7). + o Standard for GMPLS signaling [RFC3473]. See also Section 3.2.1. + + - As part of the re-optimization of the MLN, it must be possible to + reroute a lower-layer FA-LSP while keeping interface identifiers of + the corresponding TE links unchanged and causing only minimal + disruption to higher-layer traffic ([RFC5212], Section 5.8.1). + o See Section 3.1.1.3. + + - The solution must include measures to protect against network + destabilization caused by the rapid setup and tear-down of lower- + layer LSPs, as traffic demand varies near a threshold ([RFC5212], + Sections 5.8.1 and 5.8.2). + o See Section 3.1.1.4. + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 18] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - Signaling of lower-layer LSPs should include a mechanism to rapidly + advertise the LSP as a TE link in the upper layer, and to + coordinate into which routing instances the TE link should be + advertised ([RFC5212], Section 5.8.1). + o This is provided by [RFC4206] and enhanced by [HIER-BIS]. See + also Section 3.1.1.2. + + - If an upper-layer LSP is set up making use of a virtual TE link, + the underlying LSP must immediately be signaled in the lower layer + ([RFC5212], Section 5.8.2). + o See Section 3.1.1.2. + + - The solution should provide operations to facilitate the build-up + of virtual TE links, taking into account the forecast upper-layer + traffic demand, and available resource in the lower layer + ([RFC5212], Section 5.8.2). + o See Section 3.1.1.2 of this document. + + - The GMPLS protocols should provide mechanisms for the coordination + of data link verification in the upper-layer network where data + links are lower layer LSPs ([RFC5212], Section 5.9). + o See Section 3.1.3 of this document. + + - Multi-layer protocol solutions should be manageable through MIB + modules ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o See Section 3.1.5.1. + + - Choices about how to coordinate errors and alarms, and how to + operate OAM across administrative and layer boundaries must be left + open for the operator ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o This is an implementation matter, subject to operational + policies. + + - It must be possible to enable end-to-end OAM on an upper-layer LSP. + This function appears to the ingress LSP as normal LSP-based OAM + [GMPLS-OAM], but at layer boundaries, depending on the technique + used to span the lower layers, client-layer OAM operations may need + to be mapped to server-layer OAM operations ([RFC5212], Section + 5.10). + o See Section 3.1.5.2. + + - Client-layer control plane mechanisms must map and enable OAM in + the server layer ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o See Section 3.1.5.2. + + - OAM operation enabled for an LSP in a client layer must operate for + that LSP along its entire length ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o See Section 3.1.5.2. + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 19] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + - OAM function operating within a server layer must be controllable + from the client layer. Such control should be subject to policy at + the layer boundary ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o This is an implementation matter. + + - The status of a server layer LSP must be available to the client + layer. This information should be configurable to be automatically + notified to the client layer at the layer boundary, and should be + subject to policy ([RFC5212], Section 5.10). + o This is an implementation matter. + + - Implementations may use standardized techniques (such as MIB + modules) to convey status information between layers. + o This is an implementation matter. + +5. Security Considerations + + [RFC5212] sets out the security requirements for operating a MLN or + MRN. These requirements are, in general, no different from the + security requirements for operating any GMPLS network. As such, the + GMPLS protocols already provide adequate security features. An + evaluation of the security features for GMPLS networks may be found + in [MPLS-SEC], and where issues or further work is identified by that + document, new security features or procedures for the GMPLS protocols + will need to be developed. + + [RFC5212] also identifies that where the separate layers of a MLN/MRN + are operated as different administrative domains, additional security + considerations may be given to the mechanisms for allowing inter- + layer LSP setup. However, this document is explicitly limited to the + case where all layers under GMPLS control are part of the same + administrative domain. + + Lastly, as noted in [RFC5212], it is expected that solution documents + will include a full analysis of the security issues that any protocol + extensions introduce. + +6. Acknowledgments + + We would like to thank Julien Meuric, Igor Bryskin, and Adrian Farrel + for their useful comments. + + Thanks also to Question 14 of Study Group 15 of the ITU-T for their + thoughtful review. + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 20] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +7. References + +7.1. Normative References + + [RFC2119] Bradner, S., "Key words for use in RFCs to Indicate + Requirement Levels", BCP 14, RFC 2119, March 1997. + + [RFC3471] Berger, L., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label + Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Functional Description", RFC + 3471, January 2003. + + [RFC3945] Mannie, E., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label + Switching (GMPLS) Architecture", RFC 3945, October 2004. + + [RFC4202] Kompella, K., Ed., and Y. Rekhter, Ed., "Routing + Extensions in Support of Generalized Multi-Protocol Label + Switching (GMPLS)", RFC 4202, October 2005. + + [RFC5212] Shiomoto, K., Papadimitriou, D., Le Roux, JL., Vigoureux, + M., and D. Brungard, "Requirements for GMPLS-Based + Multi-Region and Multi-Layer Networks (MRN/MLN)", RFC + 5212, July 2008. + +7.2. Informative References + + [RFC3473] Berger, L., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label + Switching (GMPLS) Signaling Resource ReserVation + Protocol-Traffic Engineering (RSVP-TE) Extensions", RFC + 3473, January 2003. + + [RFC4203] Kompella, K., Ed., and Y. Rekhter, Ed., "OSPF Extensions + in Support of Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching + (GMPLS)", RFC 4203, October 2005. + + [RFC4204] Lang, J., Ed., "Link Management Protocol (LMP)", RFC + 4204, October 2005. + + [RFC4205] Kompella, K., Ed., and Y. Rekhter, Ed., "Intermediate + System to Intermediate System (IS-IS) Extensions in + Support of Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching + (GMPLS)", RFC 4205, October 2005. + + [RFC4206] Kompella, K. and Y. Rekhter, "Label Switched Paths (LSP) + Hierarchy with Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching + (GMPLS) Traffic Engineering (TE)", RFC 4206, October + 2005. + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 21] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + [RFC4220] Dubuc, M., Nadeau, T., and J. Lang, "Traffic Engineering + Link Management Information Base", RFC 4220, November + 2005. + + [RFC4655] Farrel, A., Vasseur, J.-P., and J. Ash, "A Path + Computation Element (PCE)-Based Architecture", RFC 4655, + August 2006. + + [RFC4783] Berger, L., Ed., "GMPLS - Communication of Alarm + Information", RFC 4783, December 2006. + + [RFC4802] Nadeau, T., Ed., and A. Farrel, Ed., "Generalized + Multiprotocol Label Switching (GMPLS) Traffic Engineering + Management Information Base", RFC 4802, February 2007. + + [RFC4803] Nadeau, T., Ed., and A. Farrel, Ed., "Generalized + Multiprotocol Label Switching (GMPLS) Label Switching + Router (LSR) Management Information Base", RFC 4803, + February 2007. + + [RFC4872] Lang, J., Ed., Rekhter, Y., Ed., and D. Papadimitriou, + Ed., "RSVP-TE Extensions in Support of End-to-End + Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) + Recovery", RFC 4872, May 2007. + + [RFC4974] Papadimitriou, D. and A. Farrel, "Generalized MPLS + (GMPLS) RSVP-TE Signaling Extensions in Support of + Calls", RFC 4974, August 2007. + + [ETH-OAM] Takacs, A., Gero, B., and D. Mohan, "GMPLS RSVP-TE + Extensions to Control Ethernet OAM", Work in Progress, + July 2008. + + [GMPLS-OAM] Nadeau, T., Otani, T. Brungard, D., and A. Farrel, "OAM + Requirements for Generalized Multi-Protocol Label + Switching (GMPLS) Networks", Work in Progress, October + 2007. + + [GR-SHUT] Ali, Z., Zamfir, A., and J. Newton, "Graceful Shutdown in + MPLS and Generalized MPLS Traffic Engineering Networks", + Work in Progress, July 2008. + + [HIER-BIS] Shiomoto, K., Rabbat, R., Ayyangar, A., Farrel, A., and + Z. Ali, "Procedures for Dynamically Signaled Hierarchical + Label Switched Paths", Work in Progress, February 2008. + + [MPLS-SEC] Fang, L., Ed., "Security Framework for MPLS and GMPLS + Networks", Work in Progress, July 2008. + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 22] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + + [PCE-INTER] Oki, E., Le Roux , J-L., and A. Farrel, "Framework for + PCE-Based Inter-Layer MPLS and GMPLS Traffic + Engineering", Work in Progress, June 2008. + + [TED-MIB] Miyazawa, M., Otani, T., Nadeau, T., and K. Kunaki, + "Traffic Engineering Database Management Information Base + in support of MPLS-TE/GMPLS", Work in Progress, July + 2008. + +8. Contributors' Addresses + + Deborah Brungard + AT&T + Rm. D1-3C22 - 200 S. Laurel Ave. + Middletown, NJ, 07748 USA + EMail: dbrungard@att.com + + Eiji Oki + NTT + 3-9-11 Midori-Cho + Musashino, Tokyo 180-8585, Japan + EMail: oki.eiji@lab.ntt.co.jp + + Kohei Shiomoto + NTT + 3-9-11 Midori-Cho + Musashino, Tokyo 180-8585, Japan + EMail: shiomoto.kohei@lab.ntt.co.jp + + M. Vigoureux + Alcatel-Lucent France + Route de Villejust + 91620 Nozay + FRANCE + EMail: martin.vigoureux@alcatel-lucent.fr + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 23] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +Editors' Addresses + + Jean-Louis Le Roux + France Telecom + 2, avenue Pierre-Marzin + 22307 Lannion Cedex, France + EMail: jeanlouis.leroux@orange-ftgroup.com + + + Dimitri Papadimitriou + Alcatel-Lucent + Francis Wellensplein 1, + B-2018 Antwerpen, Belgium + EMail: dimitri.papadimitriou@alcatel-lucent.be + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +Le Roux & Papadimitriou Informational [Page 24] + +RFC 5339 Evaluation of GMPLS against MLN/MRN Reqs September 2008 + + +Full Copyright Statement + + Copyright (C) The IETF Trust (2008). + + This document is subject to the rights, licenses and restrictions + contained in BCP 78, and except as set forth therein, the authors + retain all their rights. + + This document and the information contained herein are provided on an + "AS IS" basis and THE CONTRIBUTOR, THE ORGANIZATION HE/SHE REPRESENTS + OR IS SPONSORED BY (IF ANY), THE INTERNET SOCIETY, THE IETF TRUST AND + THE INTERNET ENGINEERING TASK FORCE DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS + OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY WARRANTY THAT THE USE OF + THE INFORMATION HEREIN WILL NOT INFRINGE ANY RIGHTS OR ANY IMPLIED + WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. + +Intellectual Property + + The IETF takes no position regarding the validity or scope of any + Intellectual Property Rights or other rights that might be claimed to + pertain to the implementation or use of the technology described in + this document or the extent to which any license under such rights + might or might not be available; nor does it represent that it has + made any independent effort to identify any such rights. 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