GMPLS Operation and Deployment Challenges
GMPLS extends MPLS functionality with the enhancement of forwarding, traffic engineering, and quality-of-service (QoS) capabilities of packet-based networks by creating virtual label-switched paths (LSPs) across a network of label switching routers (LSRs) to optical network devices utilizing time-division multiplexing (TDM), fiber switching, and lambda switching. In a GMPLS network it is therefore possible to find and provision end-to-end paths that traverse different networks. For example, a packet/cell-based LSP can be nested in a TDM-based LSP for transport over a SONET network. The TDM-based LSP can similarly be nested in a lambda-based LSP for transport over a wavelength network. Multiple lambda switch-capable LSPs can be nested within a fiber switch-capable set up between two fiber switching elements. This forwarding hierarchy of nested LSPs allows service providers to transparently send different types of traffic over various types of network segments. GMPLS introduces Link...