What is MPLS ?
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is one of the techniques of WAN connectivity which controls network operations. Many of the shortcomings that Internet Protocol (IP) routing faces is completely avoided in MPLS.
It came as an alternative to Frame-relay network. Today this technology is widely preferred by telecommunication industries for their voice call and data needs.
How does MPLS work ?
A MPLS works through the functioning of routers. Initially, the entrance router receives a packet which in turn labels it to provide identification. The labelled packet is then sent to other substantial routers. All other routers could easily identify packets using the label.
Although, MPLS includes many benefits to the telecommunication infrastructure, it aren't flawless. Before choosing this network, it is advisable to compare the pros and cons.
In this article, you will get the information on 5 Advantages and Disadvantages of MPLS | Limitations & Benefits of MPLS. At the end of this post, you will know the pros and cons of using MPLS.
Let's get started,
Advantages of MPLS
1. Cost
Network resources can be easily shared in MPLS since it is a layer 3 technology. Besides that, all of the customers data can be routed privately using MPLS.
2. Scalability
Scalability is an option made easily available in MPLS. It is much easier compared to other methods. According to the needs, the MPLS can be scaled up and down. Even if there is a requirement for thousands of sites.
3. Efficiency
MPLS offers much higher quality connections without packet loss and jitter. Using it along with VoIP may lead to increased efficiency. Meaning that a consistent performance can be achieved.
4. Reliability
There exists variety of features which makes MPLS reliable. Since MPLS uses labels for forwarding packets, it can be assured that the packets will be delivered to the right destination. Moreover, it is possible to assign network traffic according to the priority.
5. Bandwidth
'MPLS allows multiple traffics to pass through the network. And also, different parts of bandwidth can be assigned to various data types. Which means that bandwidth is optimally utilized. Through all these means, the bandwidth is potentially increased.
Disadvantages of MPLS
1. Security
The security of MPLS solutions are totally in the hands of the user. There is no any inherent security features offered by the MPLS provider. However, by working with the provider you could easily reduce vulnerabilities and safeguard the network to some extent.
2. Maintenance
Since MPLS is managed through carriers and less workload is present on the network management, still the maintenance requires substantial amount of efforts.
Particularly, all of the general maintenance works cannot be done directly. The maintenance needs to be carried out through an ISP. Now this is not an easy task due to some speed limitations and technical complexities of the ISP.
3. Control
MPLS also lacks when it comes to total control of the network. The configuration is taken care entirely by the service provider. The only control the user has through MPLS is dynamic routing.
4. Deployment
Deployment is a major concern when using MPLS. If the offices are present on different locations, it can complicate the process. It typically takes long time even months to connect all of the offices.
5. Accessibility
MPLS is not optimized for cloud applications. It is made exclusive for point-to-point connectivity. Meaning either a cloud application or SaaS cannot be directly accessed using MPLS. Even though, some of the cloud services are made accessible it comes with the price tag.
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