Development of FRR mechanism by adopting SDN notion

Abstract

The aim of this research is to enhance the performance of the Fast Re-Route (FRR) mechanism by adopting a methodology similar in many aspects to that used in Software Defined Networking (SDN). This methodology is represented by using a central controller to calculate the paths of backup MPLS tunnels that are used to protect previously established primary MPLS tunnels, and a messaging system to install the backup tunnels into the involved routers. The controller follows a specific scenario to efficiently reserve the bandwidth of the backup tunnels by providing bandwidth sharing among the calculated backup tunnels. The routers are provided with a scenario of periodically checking the validity of the backup tunnels after installation, which increases the level of protection. Efficient bandwidth allocation and sharing provides better utilization of network resources.