GMPLS Control Plane

Abstract

The control plane is the key element to utilize the full potential of Elastic Optical Networks ({EONs}). In this chapter, it is explained what are the functionalities of the control plane of a network, and the most popular control plane architecture, Generalized Multiprotocol Label Switching ({GMPLS}), is revisited. After the basics of routing, path computation, and signalling protocols are reviewed, the chapter explains how to architect a control plane to work in {EONs}. Moreover, the necessary extensions to the main {GMPLS} protocols to support {EONs}, including handling Bandwidth Variable Transponders ({BVTs}), are detailed. Finally, how to control a network with multiple domains is explained, focusing on the architecture and protocol improvements.