Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a data-carrying mechanism -- in computer networking and telecommunications -- which is highly scalable and protocol agnostic. Often referred to as "Layer 2.5 protocol" MPLS technology operates between the Data Link layer (Layer 2) and the Network Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI Model. MPLS is part of the family of packet-switched networks. It was designed primarily to provide a unified data-carrying service for Circuit-based as well as Circuit-switching clients. Both the clients offer a datagram service model. Multiprotocol Label Switching enables to carry diverse types of traffic such as Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Internet Protocol (IP) packets, Synchronous Optical Networking (SONET), and Ethernet frames.
Labels are assigned to the data packets in an MPLS network. Based on the label contents, packet-forwarding decisions are made, without necessitating examination of the data packets. Through this feature, end-to-end circuits may be created using any protocol over any type of transport medium. MPLS technology is beneficial as it helps to eliminate the dependence on ATM, Frame relay, SONET, Ethernet, etc., which are Layer 2 technologies. It also does not require multiple data link layer networks to gratify different traffic types. In MPLS technology, a specific path is set up for a given sequence of data packets. These packets are identified by the packet label, thereby saving the time that a router takes to search the address where the packet should next be forwarded. MPLS is referred to as "multiprotocol" since it closely works with IP, ATM, and frame relay network protocols.
The major benefits of MPLS networks include:
- Traffic Engineering - The capacity to determine the path that the traffic will take through the network
- MPLS VPN - Service providers can create IP tunnels all over their networks using MPLS, which does not necessitate encryption or end-user applications
- Layer 2 services (ATM, ethernet, frame relay) can carried over the MPLS core
- Simplified network management through elimination of multiple layers
MPLS has become popular due to its capability to form multi-service networks with high speed. It can support pre-provisioned routes that are virtual circuits known as "Label-Switched Paths (LSPs)," across the network. Provision for backing up multiple service categories containing different forwarding and drop priorities, is also available with this technology. Multiprotocol label switching addresses common networking problems such as scalability, speed, Quality of Service (QoS), and traffic engineering, and provides them a viable and effective solution. Owing to its versatility, MPLS has emerged as a solution capable of meeting bandwidth and other service requirements for IP-based networks. Scalability and Routing - based issues can be resolved by MPLS technology, which also has the capacity to exist over existing ATM and Frame relay networks. Considering the positive points and shortcomings of ATM, MPLS technologies were designed to provide more leverage to network engineers and to be deployed flexibly.
The marketplace is constantly being replaced with new technologies and technology devices. MPLS came to the forefront when there was a requirement for a protocol that needs less overhead and at the same time provides connection oriented-services for frames of variable length. Technology such as ATM and frame relay has been replaced in many areas by MPLS technology, which combines many options to satisfy the technology requirements of clientele. Specifically, MPLS has dispensed cell-switching and signaling protocol used by ATM. Concurrently, Multiprotocol label switching technology continues to maintain the traffic engineering and bandwidth control, which was popularized by ATM and frame relay in large-scale networks. Migration to MPLS technology is beneficial especially since the benefits of traffic management are important. Performance level increases and so does reliability.
Currently, MPLS is used in large "IP only" networks. It is mainly used for forwarding Ethernet traffic and IP datagrams. MPLS VPN (Virtual Private Network) and traffic engineering are the major application areas of MPLS technology. MPLS IP VPN, a layer 3 VPN technology, is used to check, classify, and monitor IP packets. It is based on the service provider, to secure overlay VPN solutions. MPLS IP VPN is distinguished for its flexibility in networking modes, and features such as network scalability, QoS, and traffic engineering. Today′s business operations employ diverse applications across the Wide Area Networks (WANs) and it is essential to manage and prioritize traffic over the networks securely. This necessitates the use of technology such as MPLS IP VPN, which is a proven method for traffic engineering and network security.
Although there are many advantages in using MPLS technology, there are yet a few hassles. Multiprotocol label switching was primarily designed for allowing routers to decide and forward IP packets based on label contents instead of the complex route lookup mechanism that is based on the destination IP address. As technology advanced, it became possible for Layer 3 switches, which are ASIC-based routers, to execute route lookups at adequate speed for supporting most interface types. Also the management issues are quite complex as MPLS networks rely solely on the routing protocols to transport data accurately. Any technology snag in routing and forwarding will result in data loss and redirection of data packets in some cases.
In order to resolve the complexities that are encountered due to various technologies, it is essential to use advanced technology solutions that provide efficient alternatives. The technology marketplace offers a wide array of technology products and enhanced solutions that support such technology. FatPipe Networks (www.fatpipe.com), the pioneer of router clustering technology, offers the highest level of WAN reliability and integrity. It provides flexible WAN optimization solutions including WAN reliability, WAN redundancy, speed, and dynamic load balancing, and enhanced features such as data compression, QoS, VPN security and encryption capabilities.
FatPipe′s patented IPVPN technology is intended for the core network side by agnostically aggregating multiple privately routed network connections, such as point-to-point, frame relay, MPLS, etc., and/or public connections to the core network. Customers can use a VPN at the customer premise with a managed VPN service as a back up to a frame relay or private line. FatPipe IPVPN also works with multiple managed VPN service providers to facilitate backup of managed services for users. Technology such as Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) gets to the leading edge by using proven technology and technology devices.
