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IETF RFC 6566
Last modified on Monday, March 12th, 2012
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Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) Y. Lee, Ed.
Request for Comments: 6566 Huawei
Category: Informational G. Bernstein, Ed.
ISSN: 2070-1721 Grotto Networking
D. Li
Huawei
G. Martinelli
Cisco
March 2012
A Framework for the Control of
Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs) with Impairments
 Abstract
As an optical signal progresses along its path, it may be altered by
the various physical processes in the optical fibers and devices it
encounters. When such alterations result in signal degradation,
these processes are usually referred to as "impairments". These
physical characteristics may be important constraints to consider
when using a GMPLS control plane to support path setup and
maintenance in wavelength switched optical networks.
This document provides a framework for applying GMPLS protocols and
the Path Computation Element (PCE) architecture to support
Impairment-Aware Routing and Wavelength Assignment (IA-RWA) in
wavelength switched optical networks. Specifically, this document
discusses key computing constraints, scenarios, and architectural
processes: routing, wavelength assignment, and impairment validation.
This document does not define optical data plane aspects; impairment
parameters; or measurement of, or assessment and qualification of, a
route; rather, it describes the architectural and information
components for protocol solutions.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 1 
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
Status of This Memo
This document is not an Internet Standards Track specification; it is
published for informational purposes.
This document is a product of the Internet Engineering Task Force
(IETF). It represents the consensus of the IETF community. It has
received public review and has been approved for publication by the
Internet Engineering Steering Group (IESG). Not all documents
approved by the IESG are a candidate for any level of Internet
Standard; see Section 2 of RFC 5741.
Information about the current status of this document, any errata,
and how to provide feedback on it may be obtained at
http://www.rfc-editor.org/info/RFC 6566.
Copyright Notice
Copyright (c) 2012 IETF Trust and the persons identified as the
document authors. All rights reserved.
This document is subject to BCP 78 and the IETF Trust's Legal
Provisions Relating to IETF Documents
(http://trustee.ietf.org/license-info) in effect on the date of
publication of this document. Please review these documents
carefully, as they describe your rights and restrictions with respect
to this document. Code Components extracted from this document must
include Simplified BSD License text as described in Section 4.e of
the Trust Legal Provisions and are provided without warranty as
described in the Simplified BSD License.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 2
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ....................................................3
2. Terminology .....................................................4
3. Applicability ...................................................6
4. Impairment-Aware Optical Path Computation .......................7
4.1. Optical Network Requirements and Constraints ...............8
4.1.1. Impairment-Aware Computation Scenarios ..............9
4.1.2. Impairment Computation and
Information-Sharing Constraints ....................10
4.1.3. Impairment Estimation Process ......................11
4.2. IA-RWA Computation and Control Plane Architectures ........13
4.2.1. Combined Routing, WA, and IV .......................15
4.2.2. Separate Routing, WA, or IV ........................15
4.2.3. Distributed WA and/or IV ...........................16
4.3. Mapping Network Requirements to Architectures .............16
5. Protocol Implications ..........................................19
5.1. Information Model for Impairments .........................19
5.2. Routing ...................................................20
5.3. Signaling .................................................21
5.4. PCE .......................................................21
5.4.1. Combined IV & RWA ..................................21
5.4.2. IV-Candidates + RWA ................................22
5.4.3. Approximate IA-RWA + Separate Detailed-IV ..........24
6. Manageability and Operations ...................................25
7. Security Considerations ........................................26
8. References .....................................................27
8.1. Normative References ......................................27
8.2. Informative References ....................................27
9. Contributors ...................................................29
1. Introduction
Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs) are constructed from
subsystems that may include wavelength division multiplexed links,
tunable transmitters and receivers, Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop
Multiplexers (ROADMs), wavelength converters, and electro-optical
network elements. A WSON is a Wavelength Division Multiplexing
(WDM)-based optical network in which switching is performed
selectively based on the center wavelength of an optical signal.
As an optical signal progresses along its path, it may be altered by
the various physical processes in the optical fibers and devices it
encounters. When such alterations result in signal degradation,
these processes are usually referred to as "impairments". Optical
impairments accumulate along the path (without 3R regeneration
[G.680]) traversed by the signal. They are influenced by the type of
fiber used, the types and placement of various optical devices, and
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 3
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
the presence of other optical signals that may share a fiber segment
along the signal's path. The degradation of the optical signals due
to impairments can result in unacceptable bit error rates or even a
complete failure to demodulate and/or detect the received signal.
In order to provision an optical connection (an optical path) through
a WSON, a combination of path continuity, resource availability, and
impairment constraints must be met to determine viable and optimal
paths through the network. The determination of appropriate paths is
known as Impairment-Aware Routing and Wavelength Assignment (IA-RWA).
Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) [RFC 3945] provides
a set of control plane protocols that can be used to operate networks
ranging from packet switch capable networks to those networks that
use time division multiplexing and WDM. The Path Computation Element
(PCE) architecture [RFC 4655] defines functional computation
components that can be used in cooperation with the GMPLS control
plane to compute and suggest appropriate paths. [RFC 4054] provides
an overview of optical impairments and their routing (path selection)
implications for GMPLS. This document uses [G.680] and other ITU-T
Recommendations as references for the optical data plane aspects.
This document provides a framework for applying GMPLS protocols and
the PCE architecture to the control and operation of IA-RWA for
WSONs. To aid in this evaluation, this document provides an overview
of the subsystems and processes that comprise WSONs and describes
IA-RWA models based on the corresponding ITU-T Recommendations, so
that the information requirements for use by GMPLS and PCE systems
can be identified. This work will facilitate the development of
protocol extensions in support of IA-RWA within the GMPLS and PCE
protocol families.
2. Terminology
ADM: Add/Drop Multiplexer. An optical device used in WDM networks
and composed of one or more line side ports and, typically, many
tributary ports.
Black Links: Black links refer to tributary interfaces where only
link characteristics are defined. This approach enables
transverse compatibility at the single-channel point using a
direct wavelength-multiplexing configuration.
CWDM: Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing
DGD: Differential Group Delay
DWDM: Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 4
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FOADM: Fixed Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer
GMPLS: Generalized Multi-Protocol Label Switching
IA-RWA: Impairment-Aware Routing and Wavelength Assignment
Line Side: In a WDM system, line side ports and links typically can
carry the full multiplex of wavelength signals, as compared to
tributary (add or drop ports), which typically carry a few
(typically one) wavelength signals.
NEs: Network Elements
OADMs: Optical Add/Drop Multiplexers
OSNR: Optical Signal-to-Noise Ratio
OXC: Optical Cross-Connect. An optical switching element in which a
signal on any input port can reach any output port.
PCC: Path Computation Client. Any client application requesting that
a path computation be performed by the Path Computation Element.
PCE: Path Computation Element. An entity (component, application, or
network node) that is capable of computing a network path or route
based on a network graph and application of computational
constraints.
PCEP: PCE Communication Protocol. The communication protocol between
a Path Computation Client and Path Computation Element.
PXC: Photonic Cross-Connect
Q-Factor: The Q-factor provides a qualitative description of the
receiver performance. It is a function of the optical signal-to-
noise ratio. The Q-factor suggests the minimum SNR (Signal-to-
Noise Ratio) required to obtain a specific bit error rate (BER)
for a given signal.
ROADM: Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer. A wavelength-
selective switching element featuring input and output line side
ports as well as add/drop tributary ports.
RWA: Routing and Wavelength Assignment
Transparent Network: A Wavelength Switched Optical Network that does
not contain regenerators or wavelength converters.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 5
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Translucent Network: A Wavelength Switched Optical Network that is
predominantly transparent but may also contain limited numbers of
regenerators and/or wavelength converters.
Tributary: A link or port on a WDM system that can carry
significantly less than the full multiplex of wavelength signals
found on the line side links/ports. Typical tributary ports are
the add and drop ports on an ADM, and these support only a single
wavelength channel.
Wavelength Conversion/Converters: The process of converting an
information-bearing optical signal centered at a given wavelength
to information with "equivalent" content centered at a different
wavelength. Wavelength conversion can be implemented via an
optical-electronic-optical (OEO) process or via a strictly optical
process.
WDM: Wavelength Division Multiplexing
Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs): WDM-based optical
networks in which switching is performed selectively based on the
center wavelength of an optical signal.
3. Applicability
There are deployment scenarios for WSONs where not all possible paths
will yield suitable signal quality. There are multiple reasons;
below is a non-exhaustive list of examples:
o WSONs are evolving and are using multi-degree optical cross-
connects in such a way that network topologies are changing from
rings (and interconnected rings) to general mesh. Adding network
equipment such as amplifiers or regenerators to ensure that all
paths are feasible leads to an over-provisioned network. Indeed,
even with over-provisioning, the network could still have some
infeasible paths.
o Within a given network, the optical physical interface may change
over the network's life; e.g., the optical interfaces might be
upgraded to higher bitrates. Such changes could result in paths
being unsuitable for the optical signal. Moreover, the optical
physical interfaces are typically provisioned at various stages of
the network's life span, as needed, by traffic demands.
o There are cases where a network is upgraded by adding new optical
cross-connects to increase network flexibility. In such cases,
existing paths will have their feasibility modified while new
paths will need to have their feasibility assessed.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 6
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o With the recent bitrate increases from 10G to 40G and 100G over a
single wavelength, WSONs will likely be operated with a mix of
wavelengths at different bitrates. This operational scenario will
impose impairment constraints due to different physical behavior
of different bitrates and associated modulation formats.
Not having an impairment-aware control plane for such networks will
require a more complex network design phase that needs to take into
account the evolving network status in terms of equipment and traffic
at the beginning stage. In addition, network operations such as path
establishment will require significant pre-design via non-control-
plane processes, resulting in significantly slower network
provisioning.
It should be highlighted that the impact of impairments and use in
determination of path viability is not sufficiently well established
for general applicability [G.680]; it will depend on network
implementations. The use of an impairment-aware control plane, and
the set of information distributed, will need to be evaluated on a
case-by-case scenario.
4. Impairment-Aware Optical Path Computation
The basic criterion for path selection is whether one can
successfully transmit the signal from a transmitter to a receiver
within a prescribed error tolerance, usually specified as a maximum
permissible BER. This generally depends on the nature of the signal
transmitted between the sender and receiver and the nature of the
communications channel between the sender and receiver. The optical
path utilized (along with the wavelength) determines the
communications channel.
The optical impairments incurred by the signal along the fiber and at
each optical network element along the path determine whether the BER
performance or any other measure of signal quality can be met for a
signal on a particular end-to-end path.
Impairment-aware path calculation also needs to take into account
when regeneration is used along the path. [RFC 6163] provides
background on the concept of optical translucent networks that
contain transparent elements and electro-optical elements such as OEO
regenerations. In such networks, a generic light path can go through
a number of regeneration points.
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Regeneration points could happen for two reasons:
(i) Wavelength conversion is performed in order to assist RWA in
avoiding wavelength blocking. This is the impairment-free case
covered by [RFC 6163].
(ii) The optical signal without regeneration would be too degraded to
meet end-to-end BER requirements. This is the case when RWA
takes into consideration impairment estimation covered by this
document.
In the latter case, an optical path can be seen as a set of
transparent segments. The calculation of optical impairments needs
to be reset at each regeneration point so each transparent segment
will have its own impairment evaluation.
+---+ +----+ +----+ +-----+ +----+ +---+
| I |----| N1 |---| N2 |-----| REG |-----| N3 |----| E |
+---+ +----+ +----+ +-----+ +----+ +---+
|<----------------------------->|<-------------------->|
Segment 1 Segment 2
Figure 1. Optical Path as a Set of Transparent Segments
For example, Figure 1 represents an optical path from node I to
node E with a regeneration point, REG, in between. This is feasible
from an impairment validation perspective if both segments (I, N1,
N2, REG) and (REG, N3, E) are feasible.
4.1. Optical Network Requirements and Constraints
This section examines the various optical network requirements and
constraints under which an impairment-aware optical control plane may
have to operate. These requirements and constraints motivate the
IA-RWA architectural alternatives presented in Section 4.2.
Different optical network contexts can be broken into two main
criteria: (a) the accuracy required in the estimation of impairment
effects and (b) the constraints on the impairment estimation
computation and/or sharing of impairment information.
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4.1.1. Impairment-Aware Computation Scenarios
A. No Concern for Impairments or Wavelength Continuity Constraints
This situation is covered by existing GMPLS with local wavelength
(label) assignment.
B. No Concern for Impairments, but Wavelength Continuity Constraints
This situation is applicable to networks designed such that every
possible path is valid for the signal types permitted on the
network. In this case, impairments are only taken into account
during network design; after that -- for example, during optical
path computation -- they can be ignored. This is the case
discussed in [RFC 6163] where impairments may be ignored by the
control plane and only optical parameters related to signal
compatibility are considered.
C. Approximated Impairment Estimation
This situation is applicable to networks in which impairment
effects need to be considered but where there is a sufficient
margin such that impairment effects can be estimated via such
approximation techniques as link budgets and dispersion [G.680]
[G.Sup39]. The viability of optical paths for a particular class
of signals can be estimated using well-defined approximation
techniques [G.680] [G.Sup39]. This is generally known as the
linear case, where only linear effects are taken into account.
Note that adding or removing an optical signal on the path should
not render any of the existing signals in the network non-viable.
For example, one form of non-viability is the occurrence in
existing links of transients of sufficient magnitude to impact the
BER of existing signals.
Much work at ITU-T has gone into developing impairment models at
this level and at more detailed levels. Impairment
characterization of network elements may be used to calculate
which paths are conformant with a specified BER for a particular
signal type. In such a case, the impairment-aware (IA) path
computation can be combined with the RWA process to permit more
optimal IA-RWA computations. Note that the IA path computation
may also take place in a separate entity, i.e., a PCE.
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RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
D. Accurate Impairment Computation
This situation is applicable to networks in which impairment
effects must be more accurately computed. For these networks, a
full computation and evaluation of the impact to any existing
paths need to be performed prior to the addition of a new path.
Currently, no impairment models are available from ITU-T, and this
scenario is outside the scope of this document.
4.1.2. Impairment Computation and Information-Sharing Constraints
In GMPLS, information used for path computation is standardized for
distribution amongst the elements participating in the control plane,
and any appropriately equipped PCE can perform path computation. For
optical systems, this may not be possible. This is typically due to
only portions of an optical system being subject to standardization.
In ITU-T Recommendations [G.698.1] and [G.698.2], which specify
single-channel interfaces to multi-channel DWDM systems, only the
single-channel interfaces (transmit and receive) are specified, while
the multi-channel links are not standardized. These DWDM links are
referred to as "black links", since their details are not generally
available. However, note that the overall impact of a black link at
the single-channel interface points is limited by [G.698.1] and
[G.698.2].
Typically, a vendor might use proprietary impairment models for DWDM
spans in order to estimate the validity of optical paths. For
example, models of optical nonlinearities are not currently
standardized. Vendors may also choose not to publish impairment
details for links or a set of network elements, in order not to
divulge their optical system designs.
In general, the impairment estimation/validation of an optical path
for optical networks with black links in the path could not be
performed by a general-purpose IA computation entity, since it would
not have access to or understand the black-link impairment
parameters. However, impairment estimation (optical path validation)
could be performed by a vendor-specific IA computation entity. Such
a vendor-specific IA computation entity could utilize standardized
impairment information imported from other network elements in these
proprietary computations.
In the following, the term "black links" will be used to describe
these computation and information-sharing constraints in optical
networks. From the control plane perspective, the following options
are considered:
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RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
1. The authority in control of the black links can furnish a list of
all viable paths between all viable node pairs to a computation
entity. This information would be particularly useful as an input
to RWA optimization to be performed by another computation entity.
The difficulty here is that such a list of paths, along with any
wavelength constraints, could get unmanageably large as the size
of the network increases.
2. The authority in control of the black links could provide a
PCE-like entity a list of viable paths/wavelengths between two
requested nodes. This is useful as an input to RWA optimizations
and can reduce the scaling issue previously mentioned. Such a
PCE-like entity would not need to perform a full RWA computation;
i.e., it would not need to take into account current wavelength
availability on links. Such an approach may require PCEP
extensions for both the request and response information.
3. The authority in control of the black links provides a PCE that
performs full IA-RWA services. The difficulty here is that this
option requires the one authority to also become the sole source
of all RWA optimization algorithms.
In all of the above cases, it would be the responsibility of the
authority in control of the black links to import the shared
impairment information from the other NEs via the control plane or
other means as necessary.
4.1.3. Impairment Estimation Process
The impairment estimation process can be modeled through the
following functional blocks. These blocks are independent of any
control plane architecture; that is, they can be implemented by the
same or by different control plane functions, as detailed in the
following sections.
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RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
+-----------------+
+------------+ +-----------+ | +------------+ |
| | | | | | | |
| Optical | | Optical | | | Optical | |
| Interface |------->| Impairment|--->| | Channel | |
| (Transmit/ | | Path | | | Estimation | |
| Receive) | | | | | | |
+------------+ +-----------+ | +------------+ |
| || |
| || |
| Estimation |
| || |
| \/ |
| +------------+ |
| | BER/ | |
| | Q Factor | |
| +------------+ |
+-----------------+
Starting from the functional block on the left, the optical interface
represents where the optical signal is transmitted or received and
defines the properties at the path endpoints. Even the impairment-
free case, such as scenario B in Section 4.1.1, needs to consider a
minimum set of interface characteristics. In such a case, only a few
parameters used to assess the signal compatibility will be taken into
account (see [RFC 6163]). For the impairment-aware case, these
parameters may be sufficient or not, depending on the accepted level
of approximation (scenarios C and D). This functional block
highlights the need to consider a set of interface parameters during
the impairment validation process.
The "Optical Impairment Path" block represents the types of
impairments affecting a wavelength as it traverses the networks
through links and nodes. In the case of a network where there are no
impairments (scenario A), this block will not be present. Otherwise,
this function must be implemented in some way via the control plane.
Architectural alternatives to accomplish this are provided in
Section 4.2. This block implementation (e.g., through routing,
signaling, or a PCE) may influence the way the control plane
distributes impairment information within the network.
The last block implements the decision function for path feasibility.
Depending on the IA level of approximation, this function can be more
or less complex. For example, in the case of no IA approximation,
only the signal class compatibility will be verified. In addition to
a feasible/not-feasible result, it may be worthwhile for decision
functions to consider the case in which paths would likely be
feasible within some degree of confidence. The optical impairments
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 12
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
are usually not fixed values, as they may vary within ranges of
values according to the approach taken in the physical modeling
(worst-case, statistical, or based on typical values). For example,
the utilization of the worst-case value for each parameter within the
impairment validation process may lead to marking some paths as not
feasible, while they are very likely to be, in reality, feasible.
4.2. IA-RWA Computation and Control Plane Architectures
From a control plane point of view, optical impairments are
additional constraints to the impairment-free RWA process described
in [RFC 6163]. In IA-RWA, there are conceptually three general
classes of processes to be considered: Routing (R), Wavelength
Assignment (WA), and Impairment Validation (IV), i.e., estimation.
Impairment validation may come in many forms and may be invoked at
different levels of detail in the IA-RWA process. All of the
variations of impairment validation discussed in this section are
based on scenario C ("Approximated Impairment Estimation") as
discussed in Section 4.1.1. From a process point of view, the
following three forms of impairment validation will be considered:
o IV-Candidates
In this case, an IV process furnishes a set of paths between two
nodes along with any wavelength restrictions, such that the paths
are valid with respect to optical impairments. These paths and
wavelengths may not actually be available in the network, due to
its current usage state. This set of paths could be returned in
response to a request for a set of at most K valid paths between
two specified nodes. Note that such a process never directly
discloses optical impairment information. Note also that this
case includes any paths between the source and destination that
may have been "pre-validated".
In this case, the control plane simply makes use of candidate
paths but does not have any optical impairment information.
Another option is when the path validity is assessed within the
control plane. The following cases highlight this situation.
o IV-Approximate Verification
Here, approximation methods are used to estimate the impairments
experienced by a signal. Impairments are typically approximated
by linear and/or statistical characteristics of individual or
combined components and fibers along the signal path.
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o IV-Detailed Verification
In this case, an IV process is given a particular path and
wavelength through an optical network and is asked to verify
whether the overall quality objectives for the signal over this
path can be met. Note that such a process never directly
discloses optical impairment information.
The next two cases refer to the way an impairment validation
computation can be performed from a decision-making point of view.
o IV-Centralized
In this case, impairments to a path are computed at a single
entity. The information concerning impairments, however, may
still be gathered from network elements. Depending on how
information is gathered, this may put additional requirements on
routing protocols. This topic will be detailed in later sections.
o IV-Distributed
In the distributed IV process, approximate degradation measures
such as OSNR, dispersion, DGD, etc., may be accumulated along the
path via signaling. Each node on the path may already perform
some part of the impairment computation (i.e., distributed). When
the accumulated measures reach the destination node, a decision on
the impairment validity of the path can be made. Note that such a
process would entail revealing an individual network element's
impairment information, but it does not generally require
distributing optical parameters to the entire network.
The control plane must not preclude the possibility of concurrently
performing one or all of the above cases in the same network. For
example, there could be cases where a certain number of paths are
already pre-validated (IV-Candidates), so the control plane may set
up one of those paths without requesting any impairment validation
procedure. On the same network, however, the control plane may
compute a path outside the set of IV-Candidates for which an
impairment evaluation can be necessary.
The following subsections present three major classes of IA-RWA path
computation architectures and review some of their respective
advantages and disadvantages.
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4.2.1. Combined Routing, WA, and IV
From the point of view of optimality, reasonably good IA-RWA
solutions can be achieved if the PCE can conceptually/algorithmically
combine the processes of routing, wavelength assignment, and
impairment validation.
Such a combination can take place if the PCE is given (a) the
impairment-free WSON information as discussed in [RFC 6163] and (b)
impairment information to validate potential paths.
4.2.2. Separate Routing, WA, or IV
Separating the processes of routing, WA, and/or IV can reduce the
need for the sharing of different types of information used in path
computation. This was discussed for routing, separate from WA, in
[RFC 6163]. In addition, as was discussed in Section 4.1.2, some
impairment information may not be shared, and this may lead to the
need to separate IV from RWA. In addition, if IV needs to be done at
a high level of precision, it may be advantageous to offload this
computation to a specialized server.
The following conceptual architectures belong in this general
category:
o R + WA + IV
separate routing, wavelength assignment, and impairment
validation.
o R + (WA & IV)
routing separate from a combined wavelength assignment and
impairment validation process. Note that impairment validation is
typically wavelength dependent. Hence, combining WA with IV can
lead to improved efficiency.
o (RWA) + IV
combined routing and wavelength assignment with a separate
impairment validation process.
Note that the IV process may come before or after the RWA processes.
If RWA comes first, then IV is just rendering a yes/no decision on
the selected path and wavelength. If IV comes first, it would need
to furnish a list of possible (valid with respect to impairments)
routes and wavelengths to the RWA processes.
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4.2.3. Distributed WA and/or IV
In the non-impairment RWA situation [RFC 6163], it was shown that a
distributed WA process carried out via signaling can eliminate the
need to distribute wavelength availability information via an
interior gateway protocol (IGP). A similar approach can allow for
the distributed computation of impairment effects and avoid the need
to distribute impairment characteristics of network elements and
links by routing protocols or by other means. Therefore, the
following conceptual options belong to this category:
o RWA + D(IV)
combined routing and wavelength assignment and distributed
impairment validation.
o R + D(WA & IV)
routing separate from a distributed wavelength assignment and
impairment validation process.
Distributed impairment validation for a prescribed network path
requires that the effects of impairments be calculated by approximate
models with cumulative quality measures such as those given in
[G.680]. The protocol encoding of the impairment-related information
from [G.680] would need to be agreed upon.
If distributed WA is being done at the same time as distributed IV,
then it is necessary to accumulate impairment-related information for
all wavelengths that could be used. The amount of information is
reduced somewhat as potential wavelengths are discovered to be in use
but could be a significant burden for lightly loaded networks with
high channel counts.
4.3. Mapping Network Requirements to Architectures
Figure 2 shows process flows for the three main architectural
alternatives to IA-RWA that apply when approximate impairment
validation is sufficient. Figure 3 shows process flows for the two
main architectural alternatives that apply when detailed impairment
verification is required.
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+-----------------------------------+
| +--+ +-------+ +--+ |
| |IV| |Routing| |WA| |
| +--+ +-------+ +--+ |
| |
| Combined Processes |
+-----------------------------------+
(a)
+--------------+ +----------------------+
| +----------+ | | +-------+ +--+ |
| | IV | | | |Routing| |WA| |
| |Candidates| |----->| +-------+ +--+ |
| +----------+ | | Combined Processes |
+--------------+ +----------------------+
(b)
+-----------+ +----------------------+
| +-------+ | | +--+ +--+ |
| |Routing| |------->| |WA| |IV| |
| +-------+ | | +--+ +--+ |
+-----------+ | Distributed Processes|
+----------------------+
(c)
Figure 2. Process Flows for the Three Main Approximate Impairment
Architectural Alternatives
The advantages, requirements, and suitability of these options are as
follows:
o Combined IV & RWA process
This alternative combines RWA and IV within a single computation
entity, enabling highest potential optimality and efficiency in
IA-RWA. This alternative requires that the computation entity
have impairment information as well as non-impairment RWA
information. This alternative can be used with black links but
would then need to be provided by the authority controlling the
black links.
o IV-Candidates + RWA process
This alternative allows separation of impairment information into
two computation entities while still maintaining a high degree of
potential optimality and efficiency in IA-RWA. The IV-Candidates
process needs to have impairment information from all optical
network elements, while the RWA process needs to have
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 17
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non-impairment RWA information from the network elements. This
alternative can be used with black links, but the authority in
control of the black links would need to provide the functionality
of the IV-Candidates process. Note that this is still very
useful, since the algorithmic areas of IV and RWA are very
different and conducive to specialization.
o Routing + Distributed WA and IV
In this alternative, a signaling protocol may be extended and
leveraged in the wavelength assignment and impairment validation
processes. Although this doesn't enable as high a potential
degree of optimality as (a) or (b), it does not require
distribution of either link wavelength usage or link/node
impairment information. Note that this is most likely not
suitable for black links.
+-----------------------------------+ +------------+
| +-----------+ +-------+ +--+ | | +--------+ |
| | IV | |Routing| |WA| | | | IV | |
| |Approximate| +-------+ +--+ |---->| |Detailed| |
| +-----------+ | | +--------+ |
| Combined Processes | | |
+-----------------------------------+ +------------+
(a)
+--------------+ +----------------------+ +------------+
| +----------+ | | +-------+ +--+ | | +--------+ |
| | IV | | | |Routing| |WA| |---->| | IV | |
| |Candidates| |----->| +-------+ +--+ | | |Detailed| |
| +----------+ | | Combined Processes | | +--------+ |
+--------------+ +----------------------+ | |
(b) +------------+
Figure 3. Process Flows for the Two Main Detailed Impairment
Validation Architectural Options
The advantages, requirements, and suitability of these detailed
validation options are as follows:
o Combined Approximate IV & RWA + Detailed-IV
This alternative combines RWA and approximate IV within a single
computation entity, enabling the highest potential optimality and
efficiency in IA-RWA while keeping a separate entity performing
detailed impairment validation. In the case of black links, the
authority controlling the black links would need to provide all
functionality.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 18
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
o IV-Candidates + RWA + Detailed-IV
This alternative allows separation of approximate impairment
information into a computation entity while still maintaining a
high degree of potential optimality and efficiency in IA-RWA;
then, a separate computation entity performs detailed impairment
validation. Note that detailed impairment estimation is not
standardized.
5. Protocol Implications
The previous IA-RWA architectural alternatives and process flows make
differing demands on a GMPLS/PCE-based control plane. This section
discusses the use of (a) an impairment information model, (b) the PCE
as computation entity assuming the various process roles and
consequences for PCEP, (c) possible extensions to signaling, and
(d) possible extensions to routing. This document is providing this
evaluation to aid protocol solutions work. The protocol
specifications may deviate from this assessment. The assessment of
the impacts to the control plane for IA-RWA is summarized in
Figure 4.
+--------------------+-----+-----+------------+---------+
| IA-RWA Option | PCE | Sig | Info Model | Routing |
+--------------------+-----+-----+------------+---------+
| Combined | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| IV & RWA | | | | |
+--------------------+-----+-----+------------+---------+
| IV-Candidates | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| + RWA | | | | |
+--------------------+-----+-----+------------+---------+
| Routing + | No | Yes | Yes | No |
|Distributed IV, RWA | | | | |
+--------------------+-----+-----+------------+---------+
Figure 4. IA-RWA Architectural Options and Control Plane Impacts
5.1. Information Model for Impairments
As previously discussed, most IA-RWA scenarios rely, to a greater or
lesser extent, on a common impairment information model. A number of
ITU-T Recommendations cover both detailed and approximate impairment
characteristics of fibers, a variety of devices, and a variety of
subsystems. An impairment model that can be used as a guideline for
optical network elements and assessment of path viability is given
in [G.680].
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It should be noted that the current version of [G.680] is limited to
networks composed of a single WDM line system vendor combined with
OADMs and/or PXCs from potentially multiple other vendors. This is
known as "situation 1" and is shown in Figure 1-1 of [G.680]. It is
planned in the future that [G.680] will include networks
incorporating line systems from multiple vendors, as well as OADMs
and/or PXCs from potentially multiple other vendors. This is known
as "situation 2" and is shown in Figure 1-2 of [G.680].
For the case of distributed IV, this would require more than an
impairment information model. It would need a common impairment
"computation" model. In the distributed IV case, one needs to
standardize the accumulated impairment measures that will be conveyed
and updated at each node. Section 9 of [G.680] provides guidance in
this area, with specific formulas given for OSNR, residual
dispersion, polarization mode dispersion/polarization-dependent loss,
and effects of channel uniformity. However, specifics of what
intermediate results are kept and in what form would need to be
standardized for interoperability. As noted in [G.680], this
information may possibly not be sufficient, and in such a case, the
applicability would be network dependent.
5.2. Routing
Different approaches to path/wavelength impairment validation give
rise to different demands placed on GMPLS routing protocols. In the
case where approximate impairment information is used to validate
paths, GMPLS routing may be used to distribute the impairment
characteristics of the network elements and links based on the
impairment information model previously discussed.
Depending on the computational alternative, the routing protocol may
need to advertise information necessary to the impairment validation
process. This can potentially cause scalability issues, due to the
high volume of data that need to be advertised. Such issues can be
addressed by separating data that need to be advertised only rarely
from data that need to be advertised more frequently, or by adopting
other forms of awareness solutions as described in previous sections
(e.g., a centralized and/or external IV entity).
In terms of scenario C in Section 4.1.1, the model defined by [G.680]
will apply, and the routing protocol will need to gather information
required for such computations.
In the case of distributed IV, no new demands would be placed on the
routing protocol.
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5.3. Signaling
The largest impacts on signaling occur in the cases where distributed
impairment validation is performed. In this case, it is necessary to
accumulate impairment information, as previously discussed. In
addition, since the characteristics of the signal itself, such as
modulation type, can play a major role in the tolerance of
impairments, this type of information will need to be implicitly or
explicitly signaled so that an impairment validation decision can be
made at the destination node.
It remains for further study whether it may be beneficial to include
additional information to a connection request, such as desired
egress signal quality (defined in some appropriate sense) in
non-distributed IV scenarios.
5.4. PCE
In Section 4.2, a number of computational architectural alternatives
were given that could be used to meet the various requirements and
constraints of Section 4.1. Here, the focus is on how these
alternatives could be implemented via either a single PCE or a set of
two or more cooperating PCEs, and the impacts on the PCEP. This
document provides this evaluation to aid solutions work. The
protocol specifications may deviate from this assessment.
5.4.1. Combined IV & RWA
In this situation, shown in Figure 2(a), a single PCE performs all of
the computations needed for IA-RWA.
o Traffic Engineering (TE) Database requirements: WSON topology and
switching capabilities, WSON WDM link wavelength utilization, and
WSON impairment information.
o PCC to PCE Request Information: Signal characteristics/type,
required quality, source node, and destination node.
o PCE to PCC Reply Information: If the computations completed
successfully, then the PCE returns the path and its assigned
wavelength. If the computations could not complete successfully,
it would be potentially useful to know why. At a minimum, it is
of interest to know if this was due to lack of wavelength
availability, impairment considerations, or both. The information
to be conveyed is for further study.
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RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
5.4.2. IV-Candidates + RWA
In this situation, as shown in Figure 2(b), two separate processes
are involved in the IA-RWA computation. This requires two
cooperating path computation entities: one for the IV-Candidates
process and another for the RWA process. In addition, the overall
process needs to be coordinated. This could be done with yet another
PCE, or this functionality could be added to one of a number of
previously defined entities. This later option requires that the RWA
entity also act as the overall process coordinator. The roles,
responsibilities, and information requirements for these two
entities, when instantiated as PCEs, are given below.
RWA and Coordinator PCE (RWA-Coord PCE):
The RWA-Coord PCE is responsible for interacting with the PCC and
for utilizing the IV-Candidates PCE as needed during RWA
computations. In particular, it needs to know that it is to use
the IV-Candidates PCE to obtain a potential set of routes and
wavelengths.
o TE Database requirements: WSON topology and switching
capabilities, and WSON WDM link wavelength utilization (no
impairment information).
o PCC to RWA PCE request: same as in the combined case.
o RWA PCE to PCC reply: same as in the combined case.
o RWA PCE to IV-Candidates PCE request: The RWA PCE asks for a
set of at most K routes, along with acceptable wavelengths
between nodes specified in the original PCC request.
o IV-Candidates PCE reply to RWA PCE: The IV-Candidates PCE
returns a set of at most K routes, along with acceptable
wavelengths between nodes specified in the RWA PCE request.
IV-Candidates PCE:
The IV-Candidates PCE is responsible for impairment-aware path
computation. It need not take into account current link
wavelength utilization, but this is not prohibited. The
IV-Candidates PCE is only required to interact with the RWA PCE as
indicated above, and not the initiating PCC. Note: The
RWA-Coord PCE is also a PCC with respect to the IV-Candidate.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 22
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
o TE Database requirements: WSON topology and switching
capabilities, and WSON impairment information (no information
link wavelength utilization required).
Figure 5 shows a sequence diagram for the possible interactions
between the PCC, RWA-Coord PCE, and IV-Candidates PCE.
+---+ +-------------+ +-----------------+
|PCC| |RWA-Coord PCE| |IV-Candidates PCE|
+-+-+ +------+------+ +---------+-------+
...___ (a) | |
| ````---...____ | |
| ```-->| |
| | |
| |--..___ (b) |
| | ```---...___ |
| | ```---->|
| | |
| | |
| | (c) ___...|
| | ___....---'''' |
| |<--'''' |
| | |
| | |
| (d) ___...| |
| ___....---''' | |
|<--''' | |
| | |
| | |
Figure 5. Sequence Diagram for the Interactions between the PCC,
RWA-Coord PCE, and IV-Candidates PCE
In step (a), the PCC requests a path that meets specified quality
constraints between two nodes (A and Z) for a given signal
represented either by a specific type or a general class with
associated parameters. In step (b), the RWA-Coord PCE requests up to
K candidate paths between nodes A and Z, and associated acceptable
wavelengths. The term "K candidate paths" is associated with the k
shortest path algorithm. It refers to an algorithm that finds
multiple k short paths connecting the source and the destination in a
graph allowing repeated vertices and edges in the paths. See details
in [Eppstein].
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 23
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
In step (c), the IV-Candidates PCE returns this list to the
RWA-Coord PCE, which then uses this set of paths and wavelengths as
input (e.g., a constraint) to its RWA computation. In step (d), the
RWA-Coord PCE returns the overall IA-RWA computation results to
the PCC.
5.4.3. Approximate IA-RWA + Separate Detailed-IV
Previously, Figure 3 showed two cases where a separate detailed
impairment validation process could be utilized. It is possible to
place the detailed validation process into a separate PCE. Assuming
that a different PCE assumes a coordinating role and interacts with
the PCC, it is possible to keep the interactions with this separate
IV-Detailed PCE very simple. Note that, from a message flow
perspective, there is some inefficiency as a result of separating the
IV-Candidates PCE from the IV-Detailed PCE in order to achieve a high
degree of potential optimality.
IV-Detailed PCE:
o TE Database requirements: The IV-Detailed PCE will need optical
impairment information, WSON topology, and, possibly, WDM link
wavelength usage information. This document puts no restrictions
on the type of information that may be used in these computations.
o RWA-Coord PCE to IV-Detailed PCE request: The RWA-Coord PCE will
furnish signal characteristics, quality requirements, path, and
wavelength to the IV-Detailed PCE.
o IV-Detailed PCE to RWA-Coord PCE reply: The reply is essentially a
yes/no decision as to whether the requirements could actually be
met. In the case where the impairment validation fails, it would
be helpful to convey information related to the cause or to
quantify the failure, e.g., so that a judgment can be made
regarding whether to try a different signal or adjust signal
parameters.
Figure 6 shows a sequence diagram for the interactions corresponding
to the process shown in Figure 3(b). This involves interactions
between the PCC, RWA PCE (acting as coordinator), IV-Candidates PCE,
and IV-Detailed PCE.
In step (a), the PCC requests a path that meets specified quality
constraints between two nodes (A and Z) for a given signal
represented either by a specific type or a general class with
associated parameters. In step (b), the RWA-Coord PCE requests up to
K candidate paths between nodes A and Z, and associated acceptable
wavelengths. In step (c), the IV-Candidates PCE returns this list to
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 24
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
the RWA-Coord PCE, which then uses this set of paths and wavelengths
as input (e.g., a constraint) to its RWA computation. In step (d),
the RWA-Coord PCE requests a detailed verification of the path and
wavelength that it has computed. In step (e), the IV-Detailed PCE
returns the results of the validation to the RWA-Coord PCE. Finally,
in step (f), the RWA-Coord PCE returns the final results (either a
path and wavelength, or a cause for the failure to compute a path and
wavelength) to the PCC.
+----------+ +--------------+ +------------+
+---+ |RWA-Coord | |IV-Candidates | |IV-Detailed |
|PCC| | PCE | | PCE | | PCE |
+-+-+ +----+-----+ +------+-------+ +-----+------+
|.._ (a) | | |
| ``--.__ | | |
| `-->| | |
| | (b) | |
| |--....____ | |
| | ````---.>| |
| | | |
| | (c) __..-| |
| | __..---'' | |
| |<--'' | |
| | |
| |...._____ (d) |
| | `````-----....._____ |
| | `````----->|
| | |
| | (e) _____.....+
| | _____.....-----''''' |
| |<----''''' |
| (f) __.| |
| __.--'' |
|<-'' |
| |
Figure 6. Sequence Diagram for the Interactions between the PCC,
RWA-Coord PCE, IV-Candidates PCE, and IV-Detailed PCE
6. Manageability and Operations
The issues concerning manageability and operations are beyond the
scope of this document. The details of manageability and operational
issues will have to be deferred to future protocol implementations.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 25
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On a high level, the GMPLS-routing-based architecture discussed in
Section 5.2 may have to deal with how to resolve potential scaling
issues associated with disseminating a large amount of impairment
characteristics of the network elements and links.
From a scaling point of view, the GMPLS-signaling-based architecture
discussed in Section 5.3 would be more scalable than other
alternatives, as this architecture would avoid the dissemination of a
large amount of data to the networks. This benefit may come,
however, at the expense of potentially inefficient use of network
resources.
The PCE-based architectures discussed in Section 5.4 would have to
consider operational complexity when implementing options that
require the use of multiple PCE servers. The most serious case is
the option discussed in Section 5.4.3 ("Approximate IA-RWA + Separate
Detailed-IV"). The combined IV & RWA option (which was discussed in
Section 5.4.1), on the other hand, is simpler to operate than are
other alternatives, as one PCE server handles all functionality;
however, this option may suffer from a heavy computation and
processing burden compared to other alternatives.
Interoperability may be a hurdle to overcome when trying to agree on
some impairment parameters, especially those that are associated with
the black links. This work has been in progress in ITU-T and needs
some more time to mature.
7. Security Considerations
This document discusses a number of control plane architectures that
incorporate knowledge of impairments in optical networks. If such an
architecture is put into use within a network, it will by its nature
contain details of the physical characteristics of an optical
network. Such information would need to be protected from
intentional or unintentional disclosure, similar to other network
information used within intra-domain protocols.
This document does not require changes to the security models within
GMPLS and associated protocols. That is, the OSPF-TE, RSVP-TE, and
PCEP security models could be operated unchanged. However,
satisfying the requirements for impairment information dissemination
using the existing protocols may significantly affect the loading of
those protocols and may make the operation of the network more
vulnerable to active attacks such as injections, impersonation, and
man-in-the-middle attacks. Therefore, additional care may be
required to ensure that the protocols are secure in the impairment-
aware WSON environment.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 26
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
Furthermore, the additional information distributed in order to
address impairment information represents a disclosure of network
capabilities that an operator may wish to keep private.
Consideration should be given to securing this information. For a
general discussion on MPLS- and GMPLS-related security issues, see
the MPLS/GMPLS security framework [RFC 5920] and, in particular, text
detailing security issues when the control plane is physically
separated from the data plane.
8. References
8.1. Normative References
[G.680] ITU-T Recommendation G.680, "Physical transfer functions
of optical network elements", July 2007.
[RFC 3945] Mannie, E., Ed., "Generalized Multi-Protocol Label
Switching (GMPLS) Architecture", RFC 3945, October 2004.
[RFC 4655] Farrel, A., Vasseur, J.-P., and J. Ash, "A Path
Computation Element (PCE)-Based Architecture", RFC 4655,
August 2006.
8.2. Informative References
[Eppstein] Eppstein, D., "Finding the k shortest paths", 35th IEEE
Symposium on Foundations of Computer Science, Santa Fe,
pp. 154-165, 1994.
[G.698.1] ITU-T Recommendation G.698.1, "Multichannel DWDM
applications with single-channel optical interfaces",
November 2009.
[G.698.2] ITU-T Recommendation G.698.2, "Amplified multichannel
dense wavelength division multiplexing applications with
single channel optical interfaces", November 2009.
[G.Sup39] ITU-T Series G Supplement 39, "Optical system design and
engineering considerations", February 2006.
[RFC 4054] Strand, J., Ed., and A. Chiu, Ed., "Impairments and Other
Constraints on Optical Layer Routing", RFC 4054,
May 2005.
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 27
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
[RFC 5920] Fang, L., Ed., "Security Framework for MPLS and GMPLS
Networks", RFC 5920, July 2010.
[RFC 6163] Lee, Y., Ed., Bernstein, G., Ed., and W. Imajuku,
"Framework for GMPLS and Path Computation Element (PCE)
Control of Wavelength Switched Optical Networks (WSONs)",
RFC 6163, April 2011.
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RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
9. Contributors
Ming Chen
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
F3-5-B R&D Center, Huawei Base
Bantian, Longgang District
Shenzhen 518129
P.R. China
Phone: +86-755-28973237
EMail: mchen@huawei.com
Rebecca Han
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
F3-5-B R&D Center, Huawei Base
Bantian, Longgang District
Shenzhen 518129
P.R.China
Phone: +86-755-28973237
EMail: hanjianrui@huawei.com
Gabriele Galimberti
Cisco
Via Philips 12
20052 Monza
Italy
Phone: +39 039 2091462
EMail: ggalimbe@cisco.com
Alberto Tanzi
Cisco
Via Philips 12
20052 Monza
Italy
Phone: +39 039 2091469
EMail: altanzi@cisco.com
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 29
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
David Bianchi
Cisco
Via Philips 12
20052 Monza
Italy
EMail: davbianc@cisco.com
Moustafa Kattan
Cisco
Dubai 500321
United Arab Emirates
EMail: mkattan@cisco.com
Dirk Schroetter
Cisco
EMail: dschroet@cisco.com
Daniele Ceccarelli
Ericsson
Via A. Negrone 1/A
Genova - Sestri Ponente
Italy
EMail: daniele.ceccarelli@ericsson.com
Elisa Bellagamba
Ericsson
Farogatan 6
Kista 164 40
Sweden
EMail: elisa.bellagamba@ericsson.com
Diego Caviglia
Ericsson
Via A. Negrone 1/A
Genova - Sestri Ponente
Italy
EMail: diego.caviglia@ericsson.com
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 30
RFC 6566 Framework for Optical Impairments March 2012
Authors' Addresses
Young Lee (editor)
Huawei Technologies
5340 Legacy Drive, Building 3
Plano, TX 75024
USA
Phone: (469) 277-5838
EMail: leeyoung@huawei.com
Greg M. Bernstein (editor)
Grotto Networking
Fremont, CA
USA
Phone: (510) 573-2237
EMail: gregb@grotto-networking.com
Dan Li
Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
F3-5-B R&D Center, Huawei Base
Bantian, Longgang District
Shenzhen 518129
P.R. China
Phone: +86-755-28973237
EMail: danli@huawei.com
Giovanni Martinelli
Cisco
Via Philips 12
20052 Monza
Italy
Phone: +39 039 2092044
EMail: giomarti@cisco.com
Lee, et al. Informational PAGE 31
RFC TOTAL SIZE: 68851 bytes
PUBLICATION DATE: Monday, March 12th, 2012
LEGAL RIGHTS: The IETF Trust (see BCP 78)
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