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MPLS VPN; A Short Guide To The Technology

Date: March 18, 2013 Author: admin Category: IT Support Services Tags:

There are two parts to the topic at hand – MPLS and VPN. It would be worthwhile to examine both of them separately.

• MPLS is Multi Protocol Label Switching which is one of the ways in which telecom networks move data around but its characteristic feature is that it works on using short path labels over the conventional long network addresses. This means a vastly simpler routing path.

• VPN is Virtual Private Network which puts a private network in a public network and allows the owner of a VPN to use the resources of public networks almost as if it were a private one. Thus the use of the term “virtual” to denote this particular type of network.

This leads one to the term MPLS VPN which simply means that a Virtual Private Network can be created using all the technology and protocols of MPLS. Here are a few more things that can make this concept a little clearer.

The best choice for multiple locations

Most telecom experts will tell you that MPLS VPN is probably one of the best options when it comes to managing multiple locations. If your business network is spread over such multiple locations, MPLS can make it easy for you to handle data traffic across the network because it essentially routes traffic according to priority.

 Flexibility

Such MPLS architecture is also extremely flexible and you can use it to integrate along with quite a large number of Internet connection options. With such architecture you can also enjoy several types of encryption depending on the industry that you are in. Most companies do have operations that entail credit card usage. For this, MPLS VPN technology can be encrypted as per PCI standards.

 Security

This technology is also capable of delivering all the security that is contained within a private network. Since it essentially puts a private network in an “as is where is” condition on a public network, you get to enjoy the highest possible standards of security. There is a very distinct demarcation between your private network and the information that it contains and the Internet resources that are used by the public.

 Types of MPLS VPN

Broadly speaking, there are three types of MPLS VPN – pseudowire or point to point, Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPN. Each of them is deployed for particular framework and delivers different types of advantages.

You can also use this technology to integrate other business services or IP-based services such as voice services into your network so as to enjoy simplicity of management and cost effectiveness.

James is a writer and blogger with 5 years experience.