Chapter 9 Configuring IEEE 802.1Q Tunneling and Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling on the ML-Series Card

Understanding Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling

no ip address

no ip route-cache mode dot1q-tunnel bridge-group 10

bridge-group 10 spanning-disabled

!

interface POS0.1 encapsulation dot1Q 10 no ip route-cache bridge-group 10

Understanding Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling

Customers at different sites connected across a service-provider network need to run various Layer 2 protocols to scale their topology to include all remote sites, as well as the local sites. Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) must run properly, and every VLAN should build a proper spanning tree that includes the local site and all remote sites across the service-provider infrastructure. Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) must discover neighboring Cisco devices from local and remote sites. VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP) must provide consistent VLAN configuration throughout all sites in the customer network.

When protocol tunneling is enabled, edge switches on the inbound side of the service-provider infrastructure encapsulate Layer 2 protocol packets with a special MAC address and send them across the service-provider network. Core switches in the network do not process these packets, but forward them as normal packets. CDP, STP, or VTP Layer 2 protocol data units (PDUs) cross the service-provider infrastructure and are delivered to customer switches on the outbound side of the service-provider network. Identical packets are received by all customer ports on the same VLANs with the following results:

Users on each of a customer’s sites are able to properly run STP and every VLAN can build a correct spanning tree based on parameters from all sites and not just from the local site.

CDP discovers and shows information about the other Cisco devices connected through the service-provider network.

VTP provides consistent VLAN configuration throughout the customer network, propagating through the service provider to all switches.

Layer 2 protocol tunneling can be used independently or to enhance IEEE 802.1Q tunneling. If protocol tunneling is not enabled on IEEE 802.1Q tunneling ports or on specific VLANs, remote switches at the receiving end of the service-provider network do not receive the PDUs and cannot properly run STP, CDP, and VTP. When protocol tunneling is enabled, Layer 2 protocols within each customer’s network are totally separate from those running within the service-provider network. Customer switches on different sites that send traffic through the service-provider network with IEEE 802.1Q tunneling achieve complete knowledge of the customer’s VLAN. If IEEE 802.1Q tunneling is not used, you can still enable Layer 2 protocol tunneling by connecting to the customer switch through access ports and enabling tunneling on the service-provider access port.

Configuring Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling

Layer 2 protocol tunneling (by protocol) is enabled on the tunnel ports or on specific tunnel VLANs that are connected to the customer by the edge switches of the service-provider network. ML-Series card tunnel ports are connected to customer IEEE 802.1Q trunk ports. The ML-Series card supports Layer 2

Cisco ONS 15310-CL, ONS 15310-MA, and ONS 15310-MA SDH Ethernet Card Software Feature and Configuration Guide, R9.1 and R9.2

 

78-19415-01

9-9

 

 

 

Page 111
Image 111
Cisco Systems ONS 15310-CL Understanding Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling, Configuring Layer 2 Protocol Tunneling, No ip address

ONS 15310-CL, ONS 15310-MA, Cisco ONS 15310-MA specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in networking and telecommunications technology, and among its impressive lineup of products, the Cisco ONS 15310 series stands out as an essential solution for optical networking. This series includes models such as the ONS 15310-MA, ONS 15310-CL, and ONS 15310-CA, each designed to meet the diverse needs of service providers and enterprises seeking to enhance their optical transport networks.

The Cisco ONS 15310-MA is an advanced multi-service platform designed for metropolitan area networks. It facilitates the seamless transport of data, voice, and video over optical networks. One of its main features is its ability to support a variety of interfaces, including Ethernet, SONET/SDH, and Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), allowing users to integrate multiple services into a single platform. Additionally, the ONS 15310-MA supports advanced traffic management and Quality of Service (QoS) features to prioritize critical applications and ensure consistent performance.

The ONS 15310-CL variant is tailored for more specific applications, providing enhanced capabilities aimed at delivering carrier-grade services. It features a robust architecture that accommodates high-capacity traffic without compromising reliability. This model emphasizes low power consumption and a compact design, making it suitable for deployment in space-constrained environments. The ONS 15310-CL also supports a wide range of optical interfaces, making it highly flexible for various network configurations.

In terms of technologies, the Cisco ONS 15310 series leverages Optical Transport Network (OTN) capabilities, providing high efficiency and greater bandwidth utilization. OTN technology enables efficient error correction and adds resilience to the network through its built-in protection mechanisms. Furthermore, the series supports seamless integration with existing IP/MPLS networks, creating a cohesive infrastructure as organizations evolve their networking requirements.

One of the defining characteristics of the ONS 15310 series is its focus on scalability. Network operators can start with a modest deployment and gradually expand capacity as demand grows. This adaptability is complemented by Cisco's comprehensive management and monitoring tools, providing operators with real-time insights into network performance and facilitating proactive management.

In conclusion, the Cisco ONS 15310-MA and ONS 15310-CL models represent sophisticated solutions for modern optical networks. With their versatile features, advanced technologies, and robust design, they empower service providers and enterprises to build resilient, high-capacity networks that meet the demands of today’s data-driven world.