SIGNALING A LABEL SWITCHED PATH(LSP) TUNNELING MODEL

摘要

Signaling a Label Switched Path (LSP) tunneling model is described. In one embodiment, a network element that is acting as an egress network element in a Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) network signals multiple LSPs for multiple disparate applications provided in the MPLS network that each require a different type of tunneling model. The network element transmits a first label mapping message for one of the LSPs that includes an indication of a first tunneling model type applicable for that LSP. That LSP is to be used to transport traffic in the MPLS network for a first one of the disparate applications that requires the indicated first tunneling model type. The network element further transits a second label mapping message for a second one of the LSPs that includes an indication of a second tunneling model type applicable for that LSP. That LSP is to be used to transport traffic in the MPLS network for a second one of the disparate applications that requires the indicated second tunneling model type. The first tunneling model type and the second tunneling model type are different. In one embodiment, the first tunneling model type is a uniform tunneling model and the second tunneling model type is a pipe tunneling model (regular pipe or short-pipe).