Policy-Based Routing Principle

Policy-Based Routing Definition

Policy-based routing (PBR) is a technique that forwards and routes data packets based on policies. It
features stronger control capabilities over data packet forwarding than common routing protocols.
Differences Between PBR and Common Routing

Common routing
o Data packets are forwarded based on the destination IP address and routing table.

PBR
o Data packets are forwarded based on policies.

1.1.1.0/24 2.2.2.0/24 1.1.1.0/24 2.2.2.0/24

IP Header Payload
IP Header Payload Source IP
-
address: 3.3.3.3
Destination IP
-
address: 1.1.1.1 Protocol type -

Destination IP Packet length -

-
address: 2.2.2.2
Principles and Application Scenarios

PBR matches data based on the source IP address, source and destination IP addresses, protocol
type, port number, or packet length and implements policies on matched data.
o Forward data from the specific egress.
o Set the data priority.

PBR applies to security, QoS, traffic offloading, and other scenarios.

o Modify the ToS or DSCP field of data packets when multiple egresses exist.
 Campus networks (Internet and education network)

 Enterprise networks (dual egresses for network access)

PBR Implementation Process

PBR takes precedence over common routing.

Input data
packet

Yes Yes Yes

PBR? Entry matched? Permitted? PBR
Check the match
Set
statement
No No No

Common routing (based on the destination IP address)