Chapter 3 Cisco SCE8000 Topology and Topology-Related Parameters

Asymmetric Routing Topology

In a single Cisco SCE8000 topology, the value of this parameter is determined by whether or not the link can be completely cut when the Cisco SCE8000 fails, or whether traffic flow should continue across the link in spite of platform failure. In the latter case, the External-bypassmode is the recommended setting, and is therefore the default value for the on-failuremode parameter.

In a dual cascaded Cisco SCE8000 topology, the default on-failure mode is Bypass, since it preserves full traffic processing functionality on both links in most single box failures (as long as the SPA interface card is functioning properly).

Cutoff mode is suggested for the following:

Non-redundant inline topology if value-added services (such as security) are crucial and are more important than maintaining connectivity.

Bypass mode is suggested for the following:

Non-redundant inline topology if connectivity is of high importance.

In redundant inline setups, if cutoff or traffic loss on a single link for a period of up to ten minutes (during a rare event of a SPA interface card failure) can be tolerated.

External-bypassmode is suggested for the following:

Non-redundant inline topology if connectivity is crucial.

Redundant inline setups, if connectivity is crucial. Note that when this mode is used, the link connected to the failed box is not serviced, and the other link operates with asymmetric routing functionality.

Asymmetric Routing Topology

In some Service Control deployments, asymmetrical routing occurs between potential service control insertion points. Asymmetrical routing can cause a situation in which the two directions of a bi-directional flow pass through different SCE platforms, resulting in each SCE platform seeing only one direction of the flow (either the inbound traffic or the outbound traffic).

This problem is typically solved by connecting the two SCE platforms in cascade mode (or through an MGSCP cluster), thereby making sure that both directions of a flow run through the same SCE platform. However, this is sometimes not feasible, due to the fact that the SCE platforms sharing the split flow are geographically remote (especially common upon peering insertion). In this type of scenario, the asymmetric routing solution enables the SCE platform to handle such traffic, allowing SCA BB to classify traffic based on a single direction and to apply basic reporting and global control features to uni-directional traffic.

Asymmetric Routing and Other Service Control Capabilities

Asymmetric routing can be combined with most other Service Control capabilities, however there are some exceptions.

Service Control capabilities that cannot be used in an asymmetric routing topology include the following:

Subscriber redirect

Subscriber notification

Any kind of subscriber integration. (Use subscriber-less mode or anonymous subscriber mode instead)

 

 

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Cisco Systems SCE8000 manual Asymmetric Routing Topology, Asymmetric Routing and Other Service Control Capabilities

SCE8000 specifications

Cisco Systems SCE8000 is an advanced service control edge solution designed to enhance the management and performance of service provider networks. Targeted at carriers and large enterprises, the SCE8000 is characterized by its capacity to efficiently handle traffic management, quality of service (QoS), and policy enforcement across various services including voice, video, and data.

One of the main features of the SCE8000 is its scalability. The platform supports a high-density architecture, allowing service providers to seamlessly expand their networks to accommodate growing traffic demands. This scalability is complemented by an impressive throughput, which enables the handling of millions of concurrent sessions, making it ideal for environments with significant user activity.

The SCE8000 employs advanced traffic management capabilities, leveraging deep packet inspection (DPI) technology. This allows for granular visibility into network traffic, enabling service providers to make informed decisions about resource allocation and policy application. Additionally, the device supports multiple protocol analysis, ensuring compatibility across various network services and enhancing overall efficiency.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another critical characteristic of the SCE8000. The platform provides sophisticated mechanisms to prioritize traffic, thereby ensuring that delay-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video streaming receive the necessary bandwidth. This capability is enhanced by Cisco's intelligent traffic shaping and congestion management features, which work together to optimize the user experience even in congested network conditions.

The SCE8000 also integrates robust security features, including session initiation protocol (SIP) security, to protect against malicious attacks and maintain service integrity. This is particularly important in today's cyber landscape where service providers must safeguard their infrastructure from various threats.

Automation and programmability are essential characteristics of the SCE8000, enabling operators to implement policies quickly and efficiently. This feature allows for dynamic scaling and rapid deployment of new services, significantly reducing the time to market for new offerings.

In conclusion, Cisco Systems SCE8000 stands out as a powerful platform for managing service provider networks. With its high scalability, advanced traffic management, quality of service assurance, robust security features, and automation capabilities, the SCE8000 enables service providers to deliver a superior customer experience while optimizing their operational efficiency. This makes it an invaluable asset for any organization looking to enhance its network performance and service delivery.