Improving network performance through policy-based management applied to generalized multi-protocol label switching

Automatically switched circuit establishment is a big step for the operators towards the automation of transport services. The aim is to reduce OPEX while improving service capabilities through a distributed generalized multi-protocol label switching (GMPLS) control plane. Nevertheless, the control plane may not operate on its own and, hence, network operators need a holistic service production platform where intensified traffic engineering (TE) capabilities exist when operating the control plane. The aim of this paper is to point out and discuss issues to be addressed and to provide guiding principles as well as a policy-based management (PBM) solution pertaining to enhanced TE related to the GMPLS control plane protocols and the corresponding network management issues.