What is MPLS?

Multi-Protocol label switching is a different way of routing data packets. It is unique from standard routing-in that it will allow a diverse list of connectivity means using various protocols, and its basic nature is that it is a mesh network, but not a broadcast domain, which means that it provides “any-to-any” connectivity.

Frame Relay vs. MPLS

Frame Replay

Frame Relay, until recently, was a networking technology that was the primary service for Wide Area Networks. Relies on the underlying assumption by carriers that not all customers will be using the full bandwidth of their circuits at the same time.

AT&T was by far the largest Frame Relay provider, with an installed base estimated at $6 billion per annum. This number has decreased as customers have adopted newer and more cost effective MPLS networks.

MPLS

Multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) was initiated in order to bridge protocols like Frame Relay, Ethernet, and ATM. MPLS has increasingly become the most widely used internet technology with more providers choosing this service each year.

Carriers have opted to deploy MPLS/IP core routers to better support legacy networks in a more cost effective way. MPLS utilizes an encapsulation method that provides Internet across different devices and technologies.