Technical Summary
A network may comprise multiple layers. In some cases it may be
valuable to globally optimize network resource utilization, taking
into account all layers, rather than optimizing resource utilization
at each layer independently. This allows better network efficiency
to be achieved through a process that we call inter-layer traffic
engineering. The Path Computation Element (PCE) can be used to
achieve inter-layer traffic engineering.
This document describes a framework for applying the PCE-based
architecture to inter-layer Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) and
Generalized MPLS (GMPLS) traffic engineering. It provides
suggestions for the deployment of PCE in support of multi-layer
networks. This document also describes network models where PCE
performs inter-layer traffic engineering, and the relationship
between PCE and a functional component called the Virtual Network
Topology Manager (VNTM).
Working Group Summary
Good consensus reported (see PROTO writeup in the tracker).
Document Quality
This document provides an informative framework and as such
is not subject to implementation, but rather is useful in the
ongoing work of the PCE working group.
Personnel
JP Vasseur is the Document Shepherd for this document. Ross
Callon is the Responsible Area Director.
RFC Editor Note
Two references need to be updated:
- draft-ietf-pce-brpc has been published as RFC 5441
- draft-ietf-pce-path-key has been published as RFC 5520