Problems with PNNI routing in meshed topology ATM networks

PNNI (private network-network interface) is a topology, state-based protocol designed to handle the signaling and routing between ATM switches configured in a private network. It offers considerable advantages for SATCOM networks that interface to terrestrial ATM networks including end-to-end quality of service (QoS) based route selection, automatic link initialization and rapid response to topology changes. However, in highly meshed configurations like those encountered in DAMA (demand assigned multiple access) networks, the amount of satellite bandwidth consumed by the PNNI protocol can be prohibitive. This paper describes a set of relatively minor modifications to the standard PNNI protocol for use within SATCOM networks. These modifications minimize the satellite bandwidth required by the PNNI protocol while maintaining full interoperability with external PNNI routing domains.