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The Concept

An MPLS, or Multi Protocol Label Switching, nework protocol. It is in essence, an alternative to local router configuration needed to use a group of VPN's for accessing assets between sites. Using this method, MPLS clouds allow a full mesh of sites. A single large outgoing connection to the internet which makes it more reliable and cheaper than a VPN network across multiple sites.

The Technical Breakdown

Normally, large multi site networks are made with site-to-site leased lines or VPNs. Which is something that requires alot of routers and configurations. With MPLS the entire network is meshed together. Making the entire thing a single "network", even with different types of data circuits. This is performed by the WAN marking data packets with virtual labels. These are used to move the data between network nodes. This makes things both more efficient and more secure on a private network which is actually seperated from the general internet. Within MPLS the forwarding is based on the label, rather than a full IP address which cuts down on transfer speed.

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An MPLS Network Map

An MPLS Network Map

Use it if you're...

  • Still using legacy connectivity services such as point to point leased lines and looking for a more efficient, cost effective and scalable performance solution
  • Looking to move applications and services to the Cloud e.g. Amazon Web Services or Microsoft Azure and require a secure dedicated connection
  • Looking to use centrally provided application resources e.g. CRM, file sharing, etc with no drop in performance
  • Currently using Virtual Private Networks over the public Internet but now looking to provide greater control of data applications with network Service Level Agreements and Quality of Service only available on a secure privately networked solution
  • Looking to run multi-media services and converge voice and data on to a single network with assurances that this sensitive data traffic will be given priority end to end, to ensure call quality
  • Looking for a secure private network at a realistic price point