Link detection protocols are used to monitor the connectivity of links between devices and detect faults. A single fault detection protocol cannot detect all faults in all links on a complex network. A combination of protocols and techniques must be used to detect link faults.
Ethernet OAM detects faults in Ethernet links and advertises fault information to interfaces or other protocol modules. Ethernet OAM fault advertisement is implemented by an OAM manager (OAMMGR) module, application modules, and detection modules. An OAMMGR module associates one module with another. A detection module monitors link status and network performance. If a detection module detects a fault, it instructs the OAMMGR module to notify an application module or another detection module of the fault. After receiving the notification, the application or detection module takes measures to prevent a communication interruption or service quality deterioration.
The OAMMGR module helps an Ethernet OAM module to advertise fault information to a detection or application module. If an Ethernet OAM module detects a fault, it instructs the OAMMGR module to send alarms to the network management system (NMS). A network administrator takes measures based on information displayed on the NMS. Ethernet OAM fault advertisement includes fault information advertisement between CFM and other modules.