Rate-based path selection based on link metric optimization in SPBM

Abstract

Link metric optimization is crucial for load balancing in a shortest path bridging MAC (SPBM) network. Link metrics and traffic assignment proportions can be optimized by solving a linear programming problem using traffic demand. However, how to assign actual flows so that they are consistent with the optimized proportions has yet to be discussed. This paper proposes a rate-based path selection scheme. The concept is to assign flows to each path so that the total rates of the assigned flows approach the planned rates. With computer simulations, we confirmed that with the proposed scheme flows were assigned to each path so that they were consistent with the optimized proportions.