What Does MPLS Stand For?
MPLS stands for Multi-Protocol Switching Network. MPLS networks are privately owned "cloud" networks that use special tag switches and routers rather than IP addressing to determine source and destination. The multi-protocol aspect means that nearly any data protocol can be transported, making MPLS networks highly versatile.
How Do You Connect to an MPLS Network?
Popular access connections are T1 lines, DS3 bandwidth, fixed location wireless, Ethernet over Copper and fiber optic services. In some cases, business grade DSL may also be used to save cost.
Why Buy MPLS Service?
Since the cloud is a private network, you have the advantage of a carefully managed service that gives you the quality you want. Since the network is shared among many users, your cost is much lower than trying to run your own private meshed network.
How MPLS Enables VoIP
Enterprise VoIP phone systems offer performance and cost savings advantages to businesses, but only if voice quality can be maintained. MPLS networks are specifically designed to maintain voice packet integrity.
MPLS Network Speeds
MPLS networks can run at any network speed and are being adopted by major carriers as the multipoint to multipoint technology of choice. For this reason, MPLS is fast replacing Frame Relay.