What is an MPLS network? WAN security explained

If your business relies on a WAN for its networking and communications, it probably uses MPLS to maintain fast and reliable connections. But what is MPLS, and why are MPLS networks falling out of favor?

What is MPLS?

MPLS, or Multiprotocol Label Switching, is a system that's been used for many years to efficiently route network traffic. It's particularly useful for business phone systems, video calls and other communications where latency matters.

How does an MPLS network work?

When a packet of data enters a network that's using MPLS, it is marked with a Forwarding Equivalence Class (FEC). This piece of information tells routers where the traffic should go and the best route for that traffic to take. Using this technique, voice or video calls could be routed along a low-latency path, while other traffic could be sent "the long way."

MPLS network technology straddles layers 2 and 3 of the OSI model. It works independently of the data-link layer, and because of this, it can be used for almost any underlying protocol. It doesn't care what's happening at the application layer, either.

This means MPLS is versatile and effective. However, the technology must be implemented at the carrier level, making it expensive and unavailable in some areas.

MPLS vs. SD-WAN

SD-WAN is being touted as a replacement for multiprotocol label switching. This technology brings software defined networking principles to WANs, in theory removing the need for an MPLS network.

However, the reality is more complex than this. MPLS is implemented by the carrier. SD-WAN uses edge devices to manage traffic, and the two systems can work together, with SD-WAN even routing MPLS traffic.

SD-WAN is cheaper and easier to implement. A network architect can manage SD-WAN routing quite easily. MPLS, once up and running, is more difficult to manage, making it hard to change routing rules on the fly.

The trade-off here is that while SD-WANs are relatively inexpensive to implement and easy to manage, they're useful only for the parts of the network under the control of the network administrator. MPLS routes traffic from source to end, but when a packet leaves a network that relies on SD-WAN, the route it takes through the internet is not under the sysadmin's control.

Why MPLS Isn't Going Anywhere

MPLS may be aging in technology terms, but it's not likely to fall completely out of fashion any time soon. It has some clear uses for VoIP, video calling and other business communications, and it can be used on top of SD-WAN for maximum performance and flexibility.

MPLS is widely supported today by a variety of carriers, and it's the most reliable way to route voice and video calls for low-latency communication.

If you're looking for a reliable phone system for your business, contact the 8x8 team today to book a free demonstration or request a quote. Our team would be happy to show you how our cloud communications solutions can make your business more efficient.