Extending RSVP-TE to support inter-AS LSPs

Multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) is currently used inside autonomous systems (ASs) for virtual private networks (VPNs) or traffic engineering (TE) purposes. We first discuss the service provider´s requirements for the utilization of MPLS label switched paths (LSPs) across AS boundaries. Then we propose a minimum set of extensions to RSVP-TE that allow inter-AS LSPs to be established in accordance with the SP´s requirements. We also show how LSP protection techniques can be extended to provide link or node failure protection for the inter-AS links and border routers.