5.2. MPLS over GRE

5.2. MPLS over GRE

The EVPN data plane is modeled as an EVPN MPLS client layer sitting over an MPLS PSN tunnel server layer. Some of the EVPN functions (split-horizon, Aliasing, and Backup Path) are tied to the MPLS client layer. If MPLS over GRE encapsulation is used, then the EVPN MPLS client layer can be carried over an IP PSN tunnel transparently. Therefore, there is no impact to the EVPN procedures and associated data-plane operation.

[RFC4023] defines the standard for using MPLS over GRE encapsulation, which can be used for this purpose. However, when MPLS over GRE is used in conjunction with EVPN, it is recommended that the GRE key field be present and be used to provide a 32-bit entropy value only if the P nodes can perform Equal-Cost Multipath (ECMP) hashing based on the GRE key; otherwise, the GRE header SHOULD NOT include the GRE key field. The Checksum and Sequence Number fields MUST NOT be included, and the corresponding C and S bits in the GRE header MUST be set to zero. A PE capable of supporting this encapsulation SHOULD advertise its EVPN routes along with the Tunnel Encapsulation Extended Community indicating MPLS over GRE encapsulation as described in the previous section.