Skip to main content

WHAT IS MPLS-TP?

MPLS-TP (Multi Protocol Label Switching Transport Profile) is a variant of the MPLS Protocol. MPLS-TP is a protocol developed jointly by the IETF and ITU-T. It was created using the IETF MPLS and PWE3 architecture to support the functions and capabilities of a packet forwarding network.

MPLS-TP is designed to use network layer technology in transmission networks. MPLS-TP is a continuation of the T-MPLS work initiated by ITU-T, the transmission networking expert. It has been a joint effort of ITU-T and IETF since 2008. Additions to MPLS have been shaped by requests from service providers. MPLS-TP is structured to be a connection-oriented packet-switched application (CO-PS connection-oriented packet-switched). As a result, MPLS-TP was created by removing features in MPLS technology that are not compatible with CO-PS and adding mechanisms that provide critical transmission functions.

  • MPLS-TP is based on the same architectural principles as layered networks such as SDH, SONET and OTN. Service providers have management processes and business guidelines built on these principles.
  • MPLS-TP offers service providers a balanced packet-based technology based on a circuit-based transmission network. Thus, it offers structures similar to other packet transmission technologies and compatible with existing processes and guidelines.
  • MPLS-TP is envisioned as a low-cost L2 technology that provides QoS and end-to-end OA&M and protection switching.

ABBREVIATIONS USED IN TERMINOLOGY:

  • CE Customer Edge
  • DCC Data Communication Channel
  • DCN Data Communication Network
  • ECC Embedded Communication Channel
  • EMF Equipment Management Function
  • EMS Element Management System
  • GAL Generic Associated Channel Label
  • NEF Network Element Function
  • LER Label Edge Router
  • LSR Label Switching Router
  • MCC Management Communication Channel
  • MCN Management Communication Network
  • ME Maintenance Entity
  • MEG Maintenance Entity Group
  • MEP Maintenance Entity Group End Point
  • MIP Maintenance Entity Group Intermediate Point
  • MPLS Multiprotocol Label Switching
  • MPLS-TP MPLS Transport Profile
  • MS-PW Multi-Segment Pseudowire
  • NE Network Element
  • OAM Operations, Administration, and Maintenance
  • OSS Operations Support System
  • PM Performance Monitoring
  • PST Path Segment Tunnel
  • PW Pseudowire
  • S-PE PW Switching Provider Edge
  • SCC Signaling Communication Channel
  • SCN Signaling Communication Network
  • SPME Sub-Path Maintenance Element