Panagiotis Saltsidis

Ethernet routing for large scale distributed data center fabrics

This paper describes how Shortest Path Bridging (SPB) and Ethernet Virtual Private Networks (EVPN) can be combined to provide a highly scalable distributed data center network fabric. It is shown how SPB can be used as the network fabric of a data center site. It is then explained how EVPN can interconnect the sites over the wide area in order provide a geographically distributed data center. The paper provides an overview for the reader to grasp the fundamentals necessary to understand how SPB and EVPN can effectively interwork. It describes the underlying algorithms and principles of operation with an examination of the design tradeoffs considered for each component. Finally it shows how multicast can be leveraged to enhance backbone network efficiency.

Upgrading the metro ethernet network

Large scale Metro Ethernet Networks are widely deployed using Provider Bridging (PB) technology. Scaling these networks is a challenging task for any network operator. Newer technologies such as Provider Backbone Bridging (PBB) and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) are available as choices to a carrier that is upgrading PB networks. In this paper we focus on technologies that are be ing deployed in Metro Ethernet Networks and discuss how to introduce them in a gradual way. We also define a method that allows in-service migration of VLAN services. Furthermore, we provide techniques that allow providers to reap the benefits that the new technologies offer from the beginning of their deployment without the need for a forklift network upgrade.