Overview of ERPS
Definition
ERPS is a protocol defined by the International Telecommunication Union - Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) to eliminate loops at Layer 2. Because the standard number is ITU-T G.8032/Y1344, ERPS is also called G.8032. ERPS defines Ring Auto Protection Switching (RAPS) Protocol Data Units (PDUs) and protection switching mechanisms.
Multi-ring topologies, such as intersecting rings
RAPS PDU transmission on non-virtual-channels (NVCs) in sub-rings
Forced Switch (FS) and Manual Switch (MS)
Revertive and non-revertive switching
Purpose
Ring Network Protocol |
Advantage |
Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|
STP/RSTP/MSTP |
|
Provides low convergence on a large network, which cannot meet the carrier-class reliability requirement. |
ERPS |
|
Requires the network topology to be planned in advance. The configuration is complex. |
Ethernet networks demand faster protection switching. STP does not meet the requirement for fast convergence.
ERPS, a standard ITU-T protocol, prevent loops on ring networks. It optimizes detection and performs fast convergence. ERPS allows all ERPS-capable devices on a ring network to communicate.
Benefits
Prevents broadcast storms and implements fast traffic switchover on a network where there are loops.
Provides fast convergence and carrier-class reliability.
Allows all ERPS-capable devices on a ring network to communicate.