Distribution of segment identifiers in network functions virtualization and software defined network environments

A non-transitory media encoded with logic that includes code for execution, and when executed by a processor, is operable to perform operations comprising:

• receiving a route advertisement that includes a prefix with a forwarding address for a first network element, wherein the route advertisement is received from a second network element proxying control plane functions for the first network element;
• receiving a segment identifier (SID) advertisement that includes a prefix SID for the prefix, wherein the SID advertisement is received from the second network element proxying control plane functions for the first network element;
• determining whether the second network element is on a same network as the first network element;
• and
• updating reachability information for the first network element based on the route advertisement, the SID advertisement, and whether the second network element is on the same network as the first network element.

An apparatus comprising:

• a memory element for storing data;
• and
• a processor operable to execute instructions associated with the data, wherein the processor and the memory element cooperate such that the apparatus is configured for:
• receive a route advertisement that includes a prefix with a forwarding address for a first network element, wherein the route advertisement is received from a second network element proxying control plane functions for the first network element;
• receive a segment identifier (SID) advertisement that includes a prefix SID for the prefix, wherein the SID advertisement is received from the second network element proxying control plane functions for the first network element;
• determine whether the second network element is on a same network as the first network element;
• and
• update reachability information for the first network element based on the route advertisement, the SID advertisement, and whether the second network element is on the same network as the first network element.