Wide Area Networks (WAN)
MPLS or Multi Protocol Layer Switching uses ‘virtual paths’ to link locations together. MPLS is unique in that it’s a Layer 2 service that can handle layer 3 applications at faster speeds.Like a P2P link, these paths provide speed and private connection but also offer a much more flexible and precise way to distribute traffic from user-to-user. In an MPLS network, specific applications (IM, voice, email, web traffic) can be prioritized so the most important information gets the most bandwidth. This is realized through a process known as Quality Of Service or QoS.
VPLS or Virtual Private LAN Service has a lot of common elements with the MPLS network. VPLS can provide similar visibility and QoS characteristics as MPLS. In fact, a VPLS network sits on top of MPLS. MPLS is the engine that assigns routes or ‘pseudo wires’ to all the locations but there are a few important distinctions between the two.
Primarily VPLS provides a ‘LAN-like’ environment using static routing whereas MPLS is a dynamic environment which can automatically re-route traffic in the event of fiber or circuit outages. VPLS provides network control to the customer whereas MPLS puts control primarily in the hands of the carrier. In VPLS every location and device looks like its on the same local network using the same range of IP addresses.
