QoS-based multi-domain routing in public broadband networks

Abstract

End-to-end routing in connection-oriented broadband networks, which satisfies end-user quality of service (QoS) constraints, is an extremely complex problem. The complexity of the problem is compounded in multidomain, multi-provider networks for a number of reasons. For example, operators of some public networks may not wish to fully disclose their internal network topologies and a highly detailed picture of their quality of service capabilities, as this information is sensitive (e.g. for their competitors). However, they do not wish to turn network traffic away, which would traverse their network regardless of the source, as it represents revenue. These two facets are in contradiction. Another challenge is that individual operators may wish to use their own internal routing algorithms, at least for routing within their own domains. End-to-end routing is typically an all or none proposition, i.e. it needs all the QoS information from all the underlying networks, in order to be able to satisfy (optimally or otherwise) the desired end-to-end QoS constraints of the end user. This is in direct contradiction to the desire of network operators to have their own routing algorithms, since they need and use internal routing algorithms to compete against each other. The efficient solution to this problem will become one of the most important challenges facing competing/cooperating public broadband network operators in the future, as the customer demand for global broadband networks, which span public network operator boundaries, grows. This paper presents an overview of the problems, proposes some potential solutions studied in the ACTS MISA project, and discusses the pros and cons of the proposed solutions.