Introduction to MPLS VPN technology
Multi Protocol Label Switching MPLS VPN
is a method of switching packets using labels instead of IP addresses or Layer 3 information. It is protocol-agnostic and speeds up packet forwarding and routing. Back when MPLS was first introduced, it showed a considerable boost in speed and took substantial load off networks by laying off IP address inspection. Today, MPLS is used not only to facilitate higher speed requirements but to develop advanced and augmented applications and services over the existing network infrastructure.
MPLS VPN Technology Overview
Virtual private networks (VPNs) are private networks that use a public network to connect two or more remote sites. Instead of dedicated connections between networks, VPNs use virtual connections routed (tunneled) through public networks that are typically service provider networks. VPNs are a cost-effective alternative to expensive dedicated lines. The type of VPN is determined by the connections it uses and whether the customer network or the provider network performs the virtual tunneling.
How does MPLS work?
IP forwarding/routing is a concept you might already be familiar with. It is the process of a router forwarding/routing a packet using information stored in its routing tables. It is a layer 3 protocol.
When a router receives a packet, it examines its IP header, fetches the destination IP and decides which path to forward the packet onto, such that it reaches its intended destination, based on the routing table. MPLS technology aims to do the same but without IP header inspection. Instead, it uses MPLS labels.
