The layer network federation reference point-definition and implementation

This paper investigates the support for federation between different transport networks, in particular between connection-oriented and connection-less transport networks. A federation is a peer-to-peer relationship between two or more parties involved in order to achieve a common goal. It is characterized by a community that includes all parties involved, a contract defining the terms of the relationship, and a policy to rule the relationship's lifecycle. Connectivity providers can federate within a layer network by mutually providing transport connectivity service through tandem connections in a portion of a layer network that belongs to the other provider. To cross technological boundaries connectivity providers have to setup an interworking unit between the involved layer networks. We recognize three different cases: federation at layer network level between connection-oriented layer networks, federation at layer network level between connection-less layer networks, and federation at connectivity level between any layer network. The current TINA NRA does not support federation between connection-less layer networks. Additionally federation at connectivity level is not solved yet. To support federation between connection-less layer networks we propose to modify the distribution of functionality over the components that support connection-less transport networks. Furthermore, we specify interfaces that are part of the layer network federation (LNFed) reference point. To support federation at connectivity level we specify dedicated interworking components. The interworking interfaces are part of the LNFed reference point.