What is MPLS technology? 

MPLS stands for Multiprotocol Label Switching and is a routing technique used in telecommunication networks, directing data across nodes based on short path labels. This technology, built over a single infrastructure, allows businesses and operators to build next-generation smart networks powerful enough to deliver a range of advanced services.   

How do businesses and operators use MPLS technology? 

Information enters the network in the form of packets. These packets carry voice, video, and other real-time traffic where the MPLS technology subsequently maps them to low-latency routes across the network. MPLS connectivity most often connects branch offices (local or global), campus networks, Ethernet services, and organizations that require a certain quality of service (QoS) for real-time applications.  

Can MPLS connectivity be used to connect global sites? 

Yes. The MPLS network can connect sites locally and globally.  

What is Layer 2 and Layer 3 MPLS? 

MPLS is best described as a “Layer 2.5” networking protocol. In the traditional OSI model, Layer 2 covers protocols like Ethernet which carry IP packets over simple LANs or P2P WANs. Layer 3, however, covers Internet-wide addressing and routing using IP protocols. MPLS sits between these layers, providing additional features for the transport of data across the network. 

What are the pros and cons of MPLS? 

Pros

The MPLS network provides scalability, performance, and better bandwidth utilization. It is also considered to be a very secure networking medium, facilitating reduced network congestion and a better end-user experience. MPLS connectivity is effective in the following ways: 

• Implementing traffic engineering, where organizations are able to control where and how traffic is routed. This allows them to manage capacity, prioritize different services, and prevent congestion 

• Implementing multi-service networks, where data transport services and IP routing services are delivered across the same packet-switched network infrastructure  

• Improving network resiliency  

Cons

Because of the multitude of benefits that MPLS networks provide, it is a service that must be purchased from a carrier and is far more expensive than sending traffic over the public Internet. It is also often difficult to find providers with global coverage, please check out stc Bahrain Coverage Map.