MPLS

MPLS definition

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a mechanism in high-performance telecommunications networks that 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.

Manage massive traffic growth and stay a step ahead of demand for video and cloud-based services. Our aggregated IP/MPLS routing and switching solutions cover all aspects of packet networking, from core and edge routing to mobile backhaul, transport, and access.

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) operates at a layer that is generally considered to lie between traditional definitions of layer 2 (data link layer) and layer 3 (network layer), and thus is often referred to as a “layer 2.5” protocol. It was designed to provide a unified data-carrying service for both circuit-based clients and packet-switching clients, which provide a datagram service model. It can be used to carry many different kinds of traffic, including IP packets, as well as native ATM, SONET, and Ethernet frames.

A number of different technologies were previously deployed with essentially identical goals, such as Frame Relay and ATM. MPLS technologies have evolved with the strengths and weaknesses of ATM in mind.

MPLS delivers highly scalable, differentiated, end-to-end IP services with simple configuration, management, and provisioning for providers and subscribers. A wide range of platforms support this solution, which is essential for both Service Provider and Enterprise networks.

  • Maximize Network Performance: MPLS Networking Solutions dynamically allocates bandwidth among voice, networking and Internet/data applications to maximize performance.
  • Control with Flexibility: Change traffic patterns when your business needs change.
  • Any-to-Any Connectivity: A “fully-meshed network” allows regional sites to exchange data without consuming unnecessary bandwidth at the hub.
  • Network Compatibility: Compatible with all industry-standard VoIP protocols and applications.

Multiprotocol Label Switching – Transport Profile

Multiprotocol Label Switching – Transport Profile (MPLS-TP) is a continuation of the work started by the transport network experts of the ITU-T, which has progressed with cooperation between ITU-T and IETF.

Multiprotocol Label Switching - Transport Profile (MPLS-TP) definition

MPLS-TP is a variant of the MPLS protocol that is used in packet switched data networks and designed for use as a network layer in transport networks. MPLS-TP is the product of a joint Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) / International Telecommunication Union Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) effort to include an MPLS Transport Profile within the IETF MPLS and PWE3 architectures to support the capabilities and functionalities of a packet transport network.

MPLS-TP protocol extensions to MPLS were designed based on requirements provided by service providers. As a connection-oriented packet-switched application, it offers a dedicated MPLS implementation by removing features that are not relevant transport applications and adding mechanisms that provide support of critical transport functionality.

MPLS-TP is based on the same architectural principles of layered networking that are used in longstanding transport network technologies, like SONET and OTN, as service providers have already developed management processes and work procedures based on these principles.

MPLS-TP platforms provide service providers with a reliable packet-based technology that is based upon principles of circuit-based transport networking. This philosophy aligns with current organizational processes and large-scale work procedures similar to other packet transport technologies, and offers a lower cost L2 technology that will provides QoS, end-to-end OA&M and protection switching.

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