20 October 2005
The IS MPLS network has been built to a Cisco standard that it is AVVID compliant. AVVID stands for Architecture for Voice, Video, and Integrated Data. IS has chosen to configure 5 different classes of service.
“Voice and Video Conferencing” which are grouped into “Multimedia” and “Platinum, Gold and Silver” in the “Data” Classes of Service.
One of the advantageous features available by the IS MPLS VPN, is the ability to burst between the different classes of service. Also known as “interclass bursting,” this functionality ensures that there is no “dormant or wasted” bandwidth that is not being used effectively.
For a number of reasons, there are two options in which to configure the type of burst between the different classes of service. The primary reason being for effective network management.
The default configuration is “DEDICATED BURST.” This is where a CoS is able to burst into another CoS for a limited time period and if there is spare capacity available, for a period of 9 seconds. It is then forced/reduced back to the guaranteed bandwidth allocation. Another name for this option is “leaky bucket” burst.
With the IS MPLS VPN infrastructure adhering to AVVID compliancy, IS is able to offer a second bandwidth option; we have labeled this “DYNAMC BURST.” This option offers “true” sustainable burst functionality between the different classes of service. Unlike the dedicated option, here a CoS can continually burst into another CoS if the capacity is available. Dynamic bandwidth will allow IS as well as the customer making use of the network to effectively optimise their bandwidth allocation and utilisation.
A point to note, is that Voice and Video Conferencing will not be activated with this burst functionality, although the other data classes of service, (P, G and S) will have the ability to utilise the unused bandwidth in ALL CoS.
Dedicated Burst Option - Monitoring
Due to the “self governing” nature of the “leaky bucket” burst… i.e. the fact that a 9 second burst into another class of service is allowed, there is no need to regulate this configuration.
Dynamic Burst Option - Monitoring Due to the fact that this burst option is “unregulated,” which means a class of service can continually burst into another class, there is a “monitoring” system which is put in place.
Please call IS for further information or go to
www.is.co.za
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