WHAT IS MULTI PROTOCOL LABEL SWITCHING (MPLS)?
Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) is an Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) initiative designed to improve the speed, efficiency and manageability of traffic flow across IP-based networks. MPLS combines the traffic engineering capabilities of Layer 3 routing with the speed benefits of Layer 2 switching. MPLS is used in the creation of any-to-any Virtual Private Networks which need to be able to prioritize certain classes of traffic (e.g. delay-sensitive over non-delay-sensitive), differentiate levels of performance for that traffic, and deliver SLA-assured levels of bandwidth.

•  High reliability - MPLS VPNs are extremely resilient due to the fully meshed virtual cloud over which information is carried. If, for example, one link in this cloud fails, traffic is automatically redirected over another path.

•  Scalability - with older technologies such as Frame Relay, increasing the size of a VPN, means increasing the number of Private Virtual Circuits (PVCs) which, in turn, means additional outlay. MPLS VPNs, on the other hand, offer true "any-to-any" connectivity, allowing multiple offices to connect at little extra cost.

•  Security - MPLS constantly re-routes packets in its quest for optimal paths. This means there is no standard link, making traffic interception very difficult.

•  Manageability - MPLS supports traffic engineering (ability to differentiate levels of service and prioritize delay-sensitive traffic), and Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities which makes it the perfect transport technology for converged (voice and video) networks.

•  High bandwidth - MPLS makes high bandwidth available cost effectively. Moreover, this bandwidth can easily be turned on and off, as requirements dictate ensuring that any investment in your network is future-proof.

Access independence - MPLS can be integrated seamlessly over any existing infrastructure, such as IP, Frame Relay, ATM, or Ethernet. Subscribers with differing access links can be aggregated on an MPLS edge without changing their current environments, as MPLS is independent of access technologies.

•  Fully bespoke MPLS-enabled IP VPN solutions, offering multiple connectivity, resilience, Quality of Service (QoS), and service management options.

•  Connectivity from 64kbit to 1 Gigabit, using a combination of optical fibre, leased lines, LAN extension services, DSL and dialup.

•  Integrated Network Security, through a unique routing and MPLS architecture. Managed Check Point firewall(s) an additional option.

•  Network convergence, for Voice over IP (VoIP) and Video over IP deployments.

•  Multiple Classes of Service, for the optimisation of bandwidth, performance, quality of service and cost, based on site-by-site traffic flow and application characteristics. Each Class of Service is subject to a rigorous Service Level Agreement.

•  Consultancy options to help organisations understand their network traffic flows and profiles thus ensuring bandwidth is not under- or over-subscribed.

•  Cisco-powered network built on recognized standards and offering extended feature sets.

•  Convenience of having all product, service, customer service, contracts, billing, and account teams through a single service provider, without the need for multiple partnerships and alliances.

all our team on 0800 169 41 31or email info@progressive-networks.net for more information