A method is provided for generating a backup route. Here, a route and a route distinguisher type associated with the route are received and a backup route is generated based on attributes of the route. A particular backup route distinguisher type that is associated with the route distinguisher type is assigned to the backup route. The backup route with the backup route distinguisher type are then advertised. Another method is provided that identifies the backup route. When the route and its route distinguisher type are received from the advertisement, an identification is made as to whether the route distinguisher type is assigned to a backup route. The route may then be designated as a backup route based on the identification.