If you’re familiar with networking, you may have heard of MPLS and VPLS. But what do they actually mean? And more importantly, what’s the difference between them?
MPLS and VPLS are two of the most popular types of WANs. They are both used to connect multiple locations, but they differ in key ways. MPLS is a more mature technology that has been around for longer. It is better suited for large, complex networks. VPLS is newer and simpler to set up, making it better for smaller networks.
This article will discuss the differences between MPLS and VPLS and help you decide which one is right for you.
Table of Contents
What is Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)?
MPLS is a technology that enables businesses to create a private network across a public network. MPLS stands for Multi-Protocol Label Switching, and it works by creating “labels” or tags that are applied to data packets as they travel across the network. This label allows the network to decide how to route the packet without ever looking inside the packet’s contents. This makes the network faster and more efficient.
What is Virtual Private Lan Service (VPLS)?
VPLS stands for virtual private LAN service. It’s a newer technology that offers some big improvements over traditional MPLS networks.
With a VPLS, carriers can create a true mesh network, where each customer is directly connected to every other customer. This eliminates the need for expensive and complex mesh networks, making it possible for service providers to offer VPLS services at a much lower price point.
Additionally, VPLS provides improved performance and reliability compared to traditional MPLS networks.
MPLS vs. VPLS: Key Differences
While MPLS and VPLS share some similarities, there are several key differences. Most notably, MPLS is a point-to-point network, while VPLS is a multipoint network. This means that with MPLS, each customer is connected to just two other customers, while VPLS can connect dozens or even hundreds of customers. MPLS can be faster due to its true nature in terms of performance.
However, VPLS is better at handling bursts of traffic. Ultimately, the best choice for your business depends on your specific needs.
Comparison Table : MPLS vs VPLS
Below table specify the difference between VPLS and MPLS –
| PARAMETER | MPLS | VPLS |
| Abbreviation | Multiprotocol Label Switching | Virtual Private LAN Service |
| Routing Control | The service provider participates in routing of customer routes. | Its service provider doesn’t participate in routing of customer routes. |
| Security | Lesser as provider participates in customer routing. | It is more secured as provider does not participate in customer routing. |
| Scalability | More scalable than VPLS | Less scalable than MPLS as Ethernet broadcast flooding consumes network bandwidth. |
| Working Principle | MPLS uses the labels to locate the other endpoint | VPLS uses the MAC address to locate the other endpoint |
| Non- IP transport support | Not Supported | Supported |
How Do VPLS and MPLS Compare?
Although VPLS and MPLS are alike in the way they accomplish, the methods they function are quite different. It’s crucial to understand that both methods employ the same principles. However, firms don’t need to pick one over one over the other in the optimization methods they employ. The two options, VPLS and MPLS, offer distinct advantages for businesses, particularly when a company is trying to secure its network for the future in a manner that doesn’t hinder its expansion plans.
The primary benefits of MPLS are its easy implementation and capability to enhance the efficiency of a network by enhancing speed and security, and overall effectiveness. If a business needs a higher level of control over data flow from one location to the next within its networks, VPLS is usually the better choice.
VPLS might be more challenging to implement and carry more expense than MPLS. However, it does offer superior security features while decreasing latency. Many companies choose to make use of VPLS to improve existing MPLS solutions. This could mean that a business can enjoy the most efficient of both.
If you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of VPLS and MPLS, remember that it’s not an either/or decision. Many organizations benefit by introducing both options, so this could be worth considering before making any choices.
VPLS and MPLS have been utilized for years by IT professionals who want to boost the performance of their systems, decreasing the amount of latency and increasing speeds. Both offer distinct advantages for growing businesses. However, there are several benefits and drawbacks to think about before deciding between the two choices. Of course, each option can be combined to reap the maximum benefits from these two distinct methods to transfer data from one location to another.
When To Use MPLS?
MPLS is great for managed service providers and businesses with multiple locations. It creates a point-to-point connection between each location, ensuring that data remains private and secure as it travels between them. That makes it perfect for use in sensitive or regulated industries like finance and healthcare. MPLS is a great option if you’re looking for a WAN technology that can offer more reliability and security.
When To Use VPLS?
VPLS (virtual private LAN service) is a networking technology used to create a virtual LAN from multiple connected physical LANs. In simpler terms, VPLS makes it possible for multiple devices (like computers, phones, or tablets) to share a single network connection. This can be really useful for businesses with multiple offices in different locations and need to connect them all. VPLS can also benefit home users who want to create a mesh Wi-Fi network using multiple routers.
When choosing between MPLS and VPLS, the main difference is that MPLS is more expensive and typically slower. So if you’re looking for a networking technology that can connect multiple locations, VPLS is the way to go.
The Bottom Line
So, what is the key difference between MPLS and VPLS? MPLS is typically a more enterprise-level solution, while VPLS is more often used in service provider and cloud environments.
In terms of functionality, MPLS is better for managing traffic between different networks, while VPLS is better for creating a single bridged network across multiple locations. Ultimately, the best way to choose between MPLS and VPLS is to consider your specific needs and requirements.