MPLS

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a type of data-carrying technique for high-performance telecommunications networks. MPLS directs data from one network node to the next based on short path labels rather than long network addresses, avoiding complex lookups in a routing table. The labels identify virtual links (paths) between distant nodes rather than endpoints. MPLS can encapsulate packets of various network protocols, therefore it is considered a layer 2.5 networking protocol. Using MPLS, data packets can be directed through the network in a variety of ways to support various applications and business needs.

A major advantage of using MPLS is that it us to offer our customers a range of services with different levels of performance and quality of service (QoS). For example, an MPLS network can be used to carry voice traffic with real-time QoS guarantees, while at the same time carrying best-effort data traffic such as web browsing or file downloading. This flexibility is not possible with traditional Layer 3 IP routing, which makes static assumptions about how traffic should be handled.

In addition, MPLS supports many other advanced features that are not possible with traditional IP routing. These include anycast routing, multicast routing, policy-based routing, and pseudowires. As a result, MPLS has become the preferred choice for building next-generation enterprise and carrier networks.