The Modeling Process and Analysis of Virtual GMPLS Optical Switching Routers

Generalized multi-protocol label switching (GMPLS) has emerged as a very promising protocol technology for the next generation optical networks. GMPLS successfully combines the best features of IP and ATM in terms of quality of service (QoS), privacy, flexibility and scalability. GMPLS introduces enhancements to the existing IP routing and signaling protocols by supporting not only networks that perform packet switching (IP), but also networks that perform switching in the time (TDM), wavelength (DWDM), and space domain (circuit switching). This paper discusses the design and implementation of a modeling tool for analysis of GMPLS optical switching routers (GOSR). A model of the GOSR has been built using OPNETTM modeling and simulation platform, in lieu of a prototype. The virtual model contains all the necessary GMPLS functions of an optical backbone router. The description on the design features and the key implementation elements of the internal mechanism of GOSR forms the introduction of this paper. The virtual model of the GOSR has the capability of giving a more integrated and realistic simulation on wavelength routing, wavelength assignment, wavelength switching, dynamic label switching path (LSP) setup and tear down, and blocking mechanism of GMPLS light paths. The OPNET process modeling methodology was used to develop the virtual GOSR models. The simulation results obtained include the blocking rate, OSPF-TE bandwidth analysis, and CPU utilization. The modeling environment developed in this project provides a simulation platform for further development and future enhancement of GMPLS protocols, routing protocols, and optical switching router implementations.