Abstract: Systems and methods provide for tracing traffic through a network. Based on a negotiation between a first network element and a second network element, the first network element can determine a customized packet type supported by the second network element. A tracing header can be added to a packet received by the first network element to generate a modified packet. The tracing header can include a unique identifier and be customized to the determined customized packet type. Based on the unique identifier, a second network element can be identified by tracing the modified packet as it is forwarded to the second network element. Forwarding information from the second network element that is associated with the modified packet can be collected, where the unique identifier is associated with the forwarding information. The unique identifier and the forwarding information can be sent to a controller to diagnose a packet forwarding issue.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide for tracing traffic through a network. Based on a negotiation between a first network element and a second network element, the first network element can determine a customized packet type supported by the second network element. A tracing header can be added to a packet received by the first network element to generate a modified packet. The tracing header can include a unique identifier and be customized to the determined customized packet type. Based on the unique identifier, a second network element can be identified by tracing the modified packet as it is forwarded to the second network element. Forwarding information from the second network element that is associated with the modified packet can be collected, where the unique identifier is associated with the forwarding information. The unique identifier and the forwarding information can be sent to a controller to diagnose a packet forwarding issue.