Integrating Extensible In-Band Processing (EIP) into the IOAM Framework: A Unified Approach In-Packet Telemetry and Metadata

Extensible In-band Processing (EIP) was proposed to support advanced in-network operations through flexible, programmable metadata carried in packet headers. This work integrates EIP into the IETF IOAM architecture by encapsulating it as a new IOAM Data-Field-Type, leveraging the IOAM processing model while preserving EIP extensibility. The approach eases deployment for IOAM operators and unifies telemetry and control-plane signaling. The paper presents design alternatives and compatibility considerations, and highlights the benefits and limitations of aligning EIP with the IOAM processing pipeline.