What is the Difference Between MPLS and VPLS?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚MPLS (Multi-Protocol Label Switching) and VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) are both methods to manage and divert network traffic, particularly for large organizations with multiple sites. They share the same underlying technology but serve different applications and offer distinct advantages.
MPLS:
- Dynamic environment with automatic re-routing in case of fiber or circuit outages.
- Better suited for organizations that need to deliver and manage voice, data, and video to many locations.
- Network control is primarily in the hands of the carrier.
- Can prioritize specific applications (e.g., IM, voice, email, web traffic) for faster speeds.
- Provides speed and private connections.
- Does not contain a default way to secure network data.
VPLS:
- Provides a 'LAN-like' environment using static routing.
- Network control is primarily in the hands of the customer.
- Connectivity is simplified by having every location delivered on an Ethernet interface.
- Creates a simulated 'pseudo-LAN' environment.
- Less granular control over security compared to MPLS.
In summary, MPLS is a dynamic solution that offers more flexibility and control over network traffic while VPLS provides a static, LAN-like environment with more control in the hands of the customer. MPLS is better suited for organizations that need to manage voice, data, and video, while VPLS is ideal for simpler connectivity with Ethernet interfaces. Both technologies have their place in business networking and can be used together, as a VPLS network sits on top of an MPLS network.
Comparative Table: MPLS vs VPLS
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) and VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) are both methods used to manage and divert network traffic, but they have different characteristics and use cases. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between MPLS and VPLS:
| Feature | MPLS | VPLS |
|---|---|---|
| Abbreviation | Multiprotocol Label Switching | Virtual Private LAN Service |
| Functionality | A protocol that uses virtual 'labels' to forward packets of data over a backbone network. | A service that uses MPLS to securely and seamlessly connect multiple LANs over the Internet, making them appear as if they were all on the same LAN. |
| Connection Type | Point-to-multipoint, ideal for connecting various network elements. | Point-to-multipoint, ideal for connecting multiple locations with high speeds. |
| Network Layer | Operates at Layer 3, forwarding data based on labels rather than long network addresses. | Operates at Layer 2, extending a LAN across geographically dispersed sites using shared network infrastructure. |
| Control Over Network Routing | Provider participates and is fully aware of customer location routes, including LAN and VPLS. | Provider does not participate or control customer site routes, making it a preferred choice for organizations that want their in-house teams to have complete control over routing. |
| Security | No default way to secure network data, relies on encryption between routers managed by the user. | Offers the security of LAN over WAN, does not share Layer 3 routing tables with the service provider. |
| Scalability | More scalable due to its Layer 3 nature. | Less scalable due to its Layer 2 nature and the consumption of bandwidth by Ethernet broadcasts over WAN links. |
In summary, MPLS is a protocol that operates at Layer 3 and is more scalable, while VPLS is a service that operates at Layer 2 and provides more control over routing for organizations. Both methods have their advantages and can be used in different scenarios depending on the specific needs of a network.