Investigation into Layer 3 Multicast Virtual Private Network Schemes

Abstract

The need of multicast applications such as Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) and dependent financial services require more scalable and reliable MVPN infrastructures. This diversity and breadth of services pose a challenge for operators to create an infrastructure that supports Layer 2 (ATM/Frame relay/Ethernet/PPP) and Layer 3(IPv4/IPv6) Virtual Private Networks. The difficulty is particularly true for virtual services that require complex control and data plane operations. Another challenge is to support emerging multicast applications incrementally on top of the existing Layer 3 VPN infrastructure without adding operational complexity.

In this thesis, we investigate and analyze several implementation methods of Multicast Virtual Private Network (MVPN) schemes by carrying out tests in a research testbed environment. These schemes are intended for offering multicast services over layer 3 VPN. However, some of these technologies can be tuned to offer multicast services over layer 2 VPN as well. We also provide tools and tactics on how to implement and evaluate the scalability and performance of two MPVN schemes in IP/MPLS core networks such as Rosen scheme and NG MVPN.