Latest Trends in Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching Standardization

Abstract

This paper presents the latest trends in Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) standardization within the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). GMPLS, a suite of control and management plane protocols, represents an extension of MPLS to cover any connection-oriented technology, such as packet (or MPLS), Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), lambda and fiber. GMPLS allows automated network operations, distributed at the network equipment level, with multi-vendor and multi-layer interoperability. As such, it is expected that GMPLS will enable control and management of the transport network by standardized mechanisms, rather than proprietary management systems and interfaces. In addition, GMPLS offers opportunities to integrate control and management of multiple network layers. The basic suite of GMPLS protocols, namely signaling, routing and link management, has been already standardized, and has been shown to be stable and functional through several years of testing and early deployments. Now carriers are looking at how they can leverage the protocols to realize revenue and activate advanced services. Accordingly, discussion in the IETF has shifted to how to apply GMPLS protocols to support various scenarios and use cases. After briefly reviewing GMPLS basics, this paper presents the latest trends in GMPLS standardization, with a focus on deployment strategies, service aspects, and operation and management.