MPLS - Multiprotocol Label Switching
What is MPLS?
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is a data forwarding technology that uses labels to make high-performance packet forwarding decisions, speeding up network traffic flow.
Why is MPLS useful?
MPLS improves speed and efficiency by avoiding complex lookups in routing tables. It also supports traffic engineering, VPNs, and Quality of Service (QoS).
How it works?
MPLS assigns short labels to packets. Routers use these labels to forward packets along predetermined paths called Label Switched Paths (LSPs), instead of routing based on IP addresses.
Where is MPLS used?
MPLS is widely used in service provider networks and enterprise WANs to enhance traffic management, VPNs, and to provide reliable, scalable connectivity.
Which OSI layer does MPLS belong to?
MPLS operates between Layer 2 (Data Link) and Layer 3 (Network), often called a “Layer 2.5” protocol.
Is MPLS Windows specific?
No, MPLS is not Windows specific. It is a network infrastructure technology implemented on routers and switches.
Is MPLS Linux specific?
No, MPLS is not Linux specific. It can be implemented on various platforms and network equipment.
Which Transport Protocol is used by MPLS?
MPLS itself does not use any transport protocol like TCP or UDP. It works at a lower layer, encapsulating packets with labels for forwarding.
Which Port is used by MPLS?
MPLS does not use ports as it is not a protocol operating over TCP/UDP.
Is MPLS using Client server model?
No, MPLS is a forwarding technology used within routers and does not follow a client-server model.
In this section, you are going to learn
Terminology
Version Info
rfc details
setup
setup
packet details
usecases
features
Reference links