RFC 3034 (rfc3034) - Page 1 of 24


Use of Label Switching on Frame Relay Networks Specification



Alternative Format: Original Text Document



Network Working Group                                           A. Conta
Request for Comments: 3034                        Transwitch Corporation
Category: Standards Track                                      P. Doolan
                                                                Ennovate
                                                                A. Malis
                                                   Vivace Networks, Inc.
                                                            January 2001


             Use of Label Switching on Frame Relay Networks
                             Specification

Status of this Memo

   This document specifies an Internet standards track protocol for the
   Internet community, and requests discussion and suggestions for
   improvements.  Please refer to the current edition of the "Internet
   Official Protocol Standards" (STD 1) for the standardization state
   and status of this protocol.  Distribution of this memo is unlimited.

Copyright Notice

   Copyright (C) The Internet Society (2001).  All Rights Reserved.

Abstract

   This document defines the model and generic mechanisms for
   Multiprotocol Label Switching on Frame Relay networks.  Furthermore,
   it extends and clarifies portions of the Multiprotocol Label
   Switching Architecture described in [ARCH] and the Label Distribution
   Protocol (LDP) described in [LDP] relative to Frame Relay Networks.
   MPLS enables the use of Frame Relay Switches as Label Switching
   Routers (LSRs).

Table of Contents

   1. Introduction................................................2
   2. Terminology.................................................3
   3. Special Characteristics of Frame Relay Switches.............4
   4. Label Encapsulation.........................................5
   5. Frame Relay Label Switching Processing......................6
   5.1  Use of DLCIs..............................................6
   5.2  Homogeneous LSPs..........................................7
   5.3  Heterogeneous LSPs........................................7
   5.4  Frame Relay Label Switching Loop Prevention and Control...7
   5.4.1   FR-LSRs Loop Control - MPLS TTL Processing.............7
   5.4.2   Performing MPLS TTL calculations.......................8
   5.5  Label Processing by Ingress FR-LSRs......................12



Conta, et al.               Standards Track