The term topology independent (TI) refers to the ability to provide a loop free backup path irrespective of the topologies used in the network. Topology-Independent Loop-Free Alternate (TI-LFA) uses segment routing to provide link, node and Shared Risk Link Groups (SRLG) protection in topologies where other fast reroute techniques, such as RLFA (Remote Loop Free Alternative) cannot provide protection. Currently TI-LFA is supported only for link-protection

The goal of TI-LFA is to reduce the packet loss that results while routers converge after a topology change due to a link failure. Rapid failure repair (up to 50msec) is achieved using pre-calculated backup paths that are loop-free.