MD PCE Multi Domain Path Computation Element

Introduction:

The Multi-Domain Path Computation Element (MD PCE) is a concept that has been introduced in the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) as a solution to enable path computation across multiple network domains. The idea behind this concept is to have a centralized entity that can compute paths across multiple domains and provide optimized end-to-end paths to the network devices. The MD PCE architecture has been designed to provide a scalable and flexible solution for path computation in large and complex networks.

Background:

The concept of path computation has been around for many years, and it has been used in various network technologies such as Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) and Generalized MPLS (GMPLS). However, these technologies are limited to a single network domain, and they do not provide a solution for path computation across multiple domains. The MD PCE architecture has been designed to address this limitation and provide a solution for path computation across multiple domains.

MD PCE Architecture:

The MD PCE architecture consists of multiple PCEs, each of which is responsible for computing paths in a specific network domain. These PCEs are connected to a central entity known as the MD PCE, which coordinates the path computation across multiple domains. The MD PCE receives the path computation requests from the network devices and forwards them to the appropriate PCE for path computation. The PCEs compute the paths based on the network topology and the constraints specified by the network devices.

The MD PCE architecture is designed to be scalable and flexible. The architecture can be extended to support new network domains and can handle a large number of path computation requests from the network devices. The architecture is also designed to be fault-tolerant, and it can handle failures of the PCEs and network devices without affecting the path computation process.

MD PCE Operation:

The MD PCE operation involves the following steps:

Path Computation Request:

The network device sends a path computation request to the MD PCE. The request includes the source and destination addresses, along with the constraints for the path computation.

Path Computation:

The MD PCE receives the path computation request and forwards it to the appropriate PCE for path computation. The PCE computes the path based on the network topology and the constraints specified by the network device.

Path Reply:

The PCE sends the computed path back to the MD PCE. The MD PCE combines the paths computed by different PCEs and provides the optimized end-to-end path to the network device.

MD PCE Applications:

The MD PCE architecture has several applications in different network technologies such as MPLS and GMPLS. Some of the applications of the MD PCE architecture are:

Traffic Engineering:

The MD PCE architecture can be used for traffic engineering in large and complex networks. The architecture can compute the optimal paths for the network devices based on the traffic demand and the network topology.

Path Diversity:

The MD PCE architecture can provide path diversity in the network. The architecture can compute multiple paths between the source and destination, which can be used to provide redundancy and load balancing in the network.

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs):

The MD PCE architecture can be used to provide Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in the network. The architecture can compute the paths for the VPN traffic based on the VPN policy and the network topology.

Inter-Domain Routing:

The MD PCE architecture can be used for inter-domain routing in the network. The architecture can compute the paths across multiple domains and provide optimized end-to-end paths to the network devices.

Conclusion:

The Multi-Domain Path Computation Element (MD PCE) is a concept that has been introduced to provide a solution for path computation across multiple network domains. The MD PCE architecture consists of multiple PCEs, each of which is responsible for computing paths in a specific network domain. The MD PCE architecture is designed to be scalable, fault-tolerant, and flexible. It can be used for traffic engineering, path diversity, VPNs, and inter-domain routing.

The MD PCE architecture is an important concept that can help network operators optimize their network paths and improve their network performance. It can also help reduce the operational costs associated with managing and maintaining large and complex networks.

However, the implementation of the MD PCE architecture requires careful planning and coordination between the network operators and the vendors providing the network devices. The network topology and the constraints for path computation need to be carefully analyzed and defined to ensure the optimal performance of the MD PCE architecture.

In addition, the MD PCE architecture needs to be integrated with the existing network management systems and protocols to ensure seamless operation of the network. The network devices need to be configured to send path computation requests to the MD PCE, and the MD PCE needs to be able to communicate with the PCEs in different network domains.

In conclusion, the MD PCE architecture is an important concept that can provide a solution for path computation across multiple network domains. It can be used for traffic engineering, path diversity, VPNs, and inter-domain routing. The implementation of the MD PCE architecture requires careful planning and coordination between the network operators and the vendors providing the network devices.