* Question
Briefly describe the application of MPLS in traffic engineering
* Answer
Application of MPLS in Traffic Engineering (TE)
1. Purpose of MPLS in Traffic Engineering
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is used in traffic engineering to optimize the use of available network resources, balance loads, and meet specific QoS (Quality of Service) requirements. By decoupling forwarding paths from standard IP routing decisions, MPLS allows operators to steer traffic along explicitly defined routes rather than relying solely on shortest-path routing.
2. Key Applications
A. Efficient Bandwidth Utilization
MPLS-TE allows the creation of Label Switched Paths (LSPs) that can bypass congested links.
Traffic is routed through underutilized network segments, improving overall link utilization.
B. Load Balancing
Multiple LSPs can be established between the same source and destination.
Network operators can distribute traffic across these LSPs to prevent overloading any single link.
C. QoS and SLA Support
Supports class-based traffic handling.
Ensures high-priority or latency-sensitive traffic (e.g., voice, video) follows low-latency, high-reliability paths.
Helps maintain Service Level Agreements.
D. Fast Reroute (FRR) for Protection
MPLS-TE supports rapid recovery from link/node failures by pre-establishing backup LSPs.
Enables sub-50 ms switchover times, which is crucial for real-time services.
3. Example Use Cases
Service Provider Networks: Managing IP backbone traffic to avoid hotspots and maximize throughput.
Enterprise WANs: Guaranteeing performance for mission-critical applications between data centers.
5G Backhaul: Ensuring reliable and low-latency transport for mobile base stations.
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