Evaluation of routing algorithms and network topologies for MPLS traffic engineering

Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a promising backbone technology for large and broadband IP networks. In an MPLS network, IP packets can be controlled more easily than is possible in best-effort IP forwarding. To clarify network topologies and routing algorithms that are suitable for MPLS Traffic Engineering, we evaluate them from the viewpoint of network use efficiency and end-to-end quality. We characterize typical network topologies and practical routing algorithms. Using a network topology that has many alternative paths and a bandwidth priority algorithm can provide good end-to-end quality and good network use efficiency.