Professor
Mr. Louis Voit
Semester
Spring 2007
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Generalized Multi-protocol Label Switching (GMPLS) is a label switching device that allows networking intelligence to be decentralized from a single administrative unit at the core of the network to several intelligent units at the edge and vice versa thus unifying IP and optical networking. This becomes possible through the use of new types of label switching routers (LSRs) such as dense wavelength division multiplexers, add/drop multiplexers and optical cross-connects. This device, like others of its kind eliminates the need for ATM and frame relay equipment in supervising network traffic. The level of intelligence controlling will be possible from Layers 3 to 1. The device was anticipated to facilitate more effective provision of bandwidth by service providers as well as increased capacity, make network restoration easier and overall decrease the costs attached to these capabilities. The device is also adaptable to a range of equipment so carriers can choose the best or preferred suppliers. |
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To some extent I support products like these that aim to decentralize some of the functions that were traditionally clustered at a single administrative zone. Getting access to network systems becomes so much easier for authorized users. What I fear though is that vulnerability at one of the switches could mean that an entire networking system is compromised as intruders may then have access to the main framework via these decentralized intelligent switches and centers. On the other hand moving intelligence away from the core could mean less susceptibility as unwanted guests will have more external systems to overcome outside of the core thus decreasing the frequency or even likelihood of invasion. |
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