Multi-Layer Control Plane Session: Packet-Optical Transport & Switching Innovation

Joe WhitehouseMetaswitch Networks

Network Technologies DivisionJoe.whitehouse@metaswitch.com

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Metaswitch Control Plane Expertise

Previously Data Connection Ltd. (DCL)• Network Protocol source code since 1983

• 1st portable GMPLS protocol solution

• 1st portable O-UNI protocol solution

• 1st portable LMP protocol solution

• 1st portable G.709 OTN protocol solution

• 1st portable MPLS-TP protocol solution

Customers

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P-OTS: Don’t Forget About the Control Plane

• Control plane functions• Automated LSP set up, tear down• On-Demand provisioning• Automated protection & restoration• Link bundling• Automated discovery

• Control plane benefits• Reduced OPEX• Facilitates network migration• OAM negotiation• Increased availability• Quicker service set up time• Reduced human errors• New services

Source: Infonetics, 2011

Key application for service providers: ASON/GMPLS Control Plane

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Multi-Layer Control Plane

• Multiple layers can include• MPLS-TP transport service sublayer• MPLS-TP transport sublayer• TDM layer (ODU)• WDM layer (OCh)

• GMPLS is common

• Carriers use only the layers needed

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Multi-Layer Control Plane: Making it Work

• Client – Server model• Common in our industry: see IETF, MEF, OIF UNI implementations

• Horizontal and vertical interoperability

Source: OIF

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Inter-Area Control Plane ConsiderationsPCE

Domain A Domain B Domain C

Optimal pathcalculated

Optimal pathcalculated

Optimal pathcalculated

= PCE Server = PCE Protocol = TE Path

• More than just inter-area solution• Lower CAPEX• Optimal relocation of network intelligence• Solves complex routing issues (WDM/OTN)

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Summary

• Control plane has significant benefits

• Large demand by service providers

• P-OTS/OTN = Multi-layer Multi-layer control plane• GMPLS is common across layers• GMPLS standardized and well understood for years

• Inter-area and client-server considerations to be made