Enhanced Efficiency of Mapping Distribution Protocols in Scalable Routing and Addressing Architectures

In this paper, we present a discussion of some architectural principles pertaining to mapping distribution protocols that are common components of proposed designs to improve the scalability of future Internet routing tables. The efficiency of a mapping distribution protocol in terms of response time and the volume of traffic load it generates are important considerations. We consider how Egress Tunnel Routers (ETRs) can perform aggregation of end-point ID (EID) address space belonging to their downstream delivery networks, in spite of migration/re-homing of some subprefixes to other ETRs. This aggregation may be useful for reducing the processing load and memory consumption associated with mapping messages, especially in resource-constrained components of the mapping distribution system. Consequently, the proposed methods can also help improve response time (e.g., first packet delay). Some key architectural issues, their potential solutions and trade-offs are discussed. The overarching goal is to expose and discuss some subtleties in design considerations for mapping distribution and management.