PRELAB

LSP:

the LSP refers to the Label Switch Path, a path used as a traffic path for MPLS networks. It uses LDPs to establish a path through an MPLS network and reserves the resources required for this path.

LSR: The LSP refers to the Label Switch Routers ,i.e. routers which use labels based on LDP to forward traffic. LDP: The LDP refers to the Label Distribution Protocol, a protocol use to implement LSPs and LSRs and lay the overall foundation for the MPLS network. The LDP allows for LSRs to find other LSRs and communicate with them. Furthermore it classifies messages into DISCOVERY, ADJACENCY, LABEL ADVERTISEMENT, and NOTIFICATION messages. It provides reliable message delivery as it is executed over TCP. FEC: FEC stands for Forwarding Equivalency Class which is basically a set of packets that will be forwarded in the same manner. Packets that belong to the same FEC will follow the same path in the MPLS domain. The main factors in deciding which FEC a packet will be assigned to are the packets IP header and the incoming port number. A label is used to identify which FEC a packet is assigned to. IGP Routing: IGP stands for Interior Gateway Protocols. A few examples of IGPs are OSPF and IS-IS. IGPs are used to define how the exchange of information is going to take place between gateways, meaning hosts and routers. IGP provides routing information to MPLS. No changes need to be made to IGPs in order for them to support MPLS. MPLS Traffic Trunk is an aggregation of traffic flows of the same class which inside a LSP. A traffic trunk is different from the LSP through which it traverses. A traffic trunk can also be moved from one path onto another.