Ethernet layer 2 label switched paths (LSP)

Ethernet becomes the predominant layer 2 technology in metropolitan area networks (MAN) and starts challenging multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) as the convergence layer for core networks in combination with IP. However, as these environments are driven by substantially different architectural constraints (such as meshing instead of common broadcast access segments and larger distances) the control of the Ethernet technology must be designed such that it can face these new challenges. To achieve this goal, this paper proposes to extend the capability of the generalized multi-protocol label switching (GMPLS) protocol suite to Ethernet and more generically to any layer 2 switching technology.