Introduction to Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS)

MPLS is stands for Multi Protocol Label Switching. MPLS circuit is one that combines the best features of the older style traditional point to point circuits and the even older frame relay circuits into a single circuit and then adds more functionality on top of all that. MPLS can provide the same throughput as an equivalent point to point network and these networks are commonly used in high performance networks for the purpose of communication and for the same level of bandwidth. MPLS circuit does at its base level is allow you to connect multiple offices in different locations in the same that you would with a point to point network. Making MPLS much less expensive to accomplish the same thing, with MPLS technology you are not paying a per mile charge between locations as you would with point to point or frame relay but you are not limited to the PTP hub and spoke configuration which is both inefficient as well as expensive.

Today, there are three types of MPLS VPN(virtual private network) that are developed. The first type is what is known as point to point or VPN. To provide a point to point connection between two specific locations, these types of VPN make use of virtual leased lines. The Layer 2 VPN is another type of virtual private network that can be used in an MPLS network and sometimes known as the VPLS or virtual private LAN service that provides a ‘switch in the cloud’ type of service, this means that the network is able to cover between two locations. These types are most commonly used in the transfer of voice and video traffic between different locations.  The last type of MPLS is the Layer 3 VPN or VPRN stands for virtual private routed network. It makes use of layer 3 virtual routing and forwarding to make routing between individual clients and the service provider possible. It is not usually applied on utility networks because this is the most complex type of multi protocol label switching. This types MPLS is the most supportive for SME businesses and corporate companies as it directs and diverts traffic between the corporations and data center locations.

Choosing a MPLS service provider is not a simple task and you should use a telecom broker who can honestly and frankly tell you which carriers should be considered and which should not and it based on the locations you need to interconnect. Even a brand name may not be your best option depending on your locations.