MPLS networks have become a sought-after alternative to costly, proprietary WAN networks and the public internet, which can present performance and security challenges. Let’s explore what MPLS networks offer and the various ways to access them.
Imagine an MPLS network as a dedicated internet exclusively for businesses. Privately owned and operated, MPLS networks don’t provide services or connections for residential users, making them strictly business-to-business (B2B). Numerous service providers operate their own MPLS networks, offering regional, national, or international coverage. Some providers even specialize in connecting different MPLS networks, creating expansive “MPLS Mesh” networks.
MPLS often forms the core network for major service providers due to its adaptability. The underlying infrastructure typically consists of IP-based or SONET/SDH fiber optic service at speeds of 10 Gbps or higher, with many networks transitioning from 40 Gbps to the cutting-edge 100 Gbps. The defining feature of an MPLS network lies in its unique switching and routing system, which operates independently of specific protocols.
MPLS stands for Multi-Protocol Label Switching. “Multi-Protocol” signifies its ability to handle various data types, including Voice, Data, Video IP, SONET, T-Carrier, and more, simultaneously and without conflicts. “Label Switching” refers to the method of tagging each data packet entering the network. This tag guides the packet to its destination using an appropriate class of service and is removed upon exit, ensuring data integrity.
Think of MPLS networks as private high-speed highways, with access points acting as on and off-ramps. One significant advantage of using MPLS for long-distance data transmission is the simplicity it offers: businesses only need to focus on getting their data to and from the network. The network operator takes care of optimizing performance within the MPLS network, ensuring sufficient bandwidth with minimal latency, jitter, and packet loss.
EarthLink Business, for example, provides a nationwide, access-agnostic MPLS network with Service Level Agreements (SLAs) determined by Class of Service (CoS). They offer five distinct access technologies tailored to the needs of each business location, which can be mixed and matched while maintaining consistent CoS across a business’s network. Here’s a breakdown:
T1 Lines: The traditional and still prevalent access method, T1 lines are widely available over existing copper telephone wiring in most business locations. They offer symmetrical bandwidth of 1.5 Mbps, which can be increased by combining multiple lines. EarthLink boasts a four-hour mean time to repair (MTTR) for private T1 lines in case of disruptions.
DSL: Considered a budget-friendly alternative to T1, ADSL provides asymmetrical bandwidth with faster download than upload speeds. EarthLink is a pioneer in offering CoS traffic management over DSL, making it a viable option for business applications.
Ethernet over Copper (EoC) and Fiber (EoF): EoC and EoF are strong contenders against T1, DS3, and high-speed SONET fiber services. Ethernet aligns better with IP traffic compared to circuit-switched TDM (Time Division Multiplexing) technologies. Additionally, it offers scalability and cost-effectiveness per Mbps where available.
Wireless Access: Ideal for newly established locations needing quick setup or for affordable access where DSL is limited, wireless access provides flexibility. 3G and 4G cellular bandwidth, often available in remote areas, can offer speeds equal to or greater than T1 without requiring a landline. Fixed wireless microwave transmission provides even higher speeds and can serve as a practical alternative to fiber.
MPLS IPsec: EarthLink also offers this unique service. You might know IPsec, or IP Security, as a VPN technology used for secure internet connections. Its security stems from the 3DES encryption algorithm (168-bit), which is the financial industry standard for network-layer encryption. IPsec enables businesses to use local internet providers in remote areas while securely connecting to the corporate MPLS network.
Could MPLS be the right solution for your business networking needs? What access methods are suitable for your different locations? A complimentary set of MPLS network and access service quotes can help you compare options and potentially reveal cost savings compared to your current WAN solution.
