Replace MPLS with EPFTS to build a SUPANET

Abstract

The context of this paper is the network architecture next to NGI towards future converged backbone network over DWDM. The core technique in this work involves high-speed switching techniques at the physical layer with embedded QoS mechanisms. This paper challenges MPLS as the best candidate for future converged backbone networks with regard to QoS provisioning, in view that it still heavily relies on existing data link and physical layers, most of which do not provide adequate mechanisms to support QoS. Extension of MPLS to GMPLS (generic MPLS) makes QoS provisioning and management even more difficult for diversity of switching techniques adopted in sub-networks. To enable to build a single user-data transfer platform architecture network (SUPANET), a novel switching technique called the EPFTS (Ethernet-like physical frame timeslot switching) over DWDM is introduced to improve switching efficiency for user data and to provide better QoS. A fringe benefit of EPFTS is that no segmentation or reassembly is needed when interface with the most popular Ethernet in user-premises networks. The Internet protocol stack is remained in signaling and management platforms of SUPANET and will behave as Internet entities in Internet-mode and as signaling and management entities only in SUPA-mode.