What Is VPLS?
VPLS is a class of VPN or Virtual Private Network that connects multiple sites to form a single bridged domain. It is implemented using a MPLS or Multi-Protocol Label Switching Network. That makes it protocol-transparent so that all services, regardless of which location the are physically located at, appear to be on the larger LAN that serves all locations.
How MPLS Replaces Frame Relay Networks
Frame relay has been a popular private WAN networking service to link multiple locations. MPLS is the replacement service that offers more flexibility, higher bandwidth and lower costs.
When Should You Use VPLS?
VPLS might be the right service for your company or organization if you need to connect anywhere from a few to a few dozen locations as if they were on a single Local Area Network. Advantages of this approach, compared to a private network arrangement with individual point to point connections back to headquarters, include lower latency, higher efficiency, and lower cost... perhaps much lower cost.
How Does Label Switching Work?
Label switching technology tags the input packets with their source, destination and quality of service requirements. Tag switches or label routers then efficiently get that packet to its destination intact.
Why International MPLS Networks?
If you do business internationally and need to connect your far-flung operations, an international MPLS network offers the opportunity to create a full mesh network so that any location can communicate to any other location.