Multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) is a viable network service that outperforms current systems such as Frame Relay and ATM. MPLS is appealing to businesses because of its faster speeds, scalability, quality-of-service (QoS) management, and traffic engineering. MPLS is the "new kid on the block" so to speak. It meets the bandwidth and service requirements for current and future Internet protocol (IP)-based backbone networks. MPLS is also compatible with existing asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) and frame-relay networks.

When considering an MPLS service for your business, ask yourself the following questions to determine if MPLS is right for your business network:

* Is convergence part of your business plan, or have you already initiated a convergence?

* Does your business have numerous satellite offices, each having low-to-medium bandwidth requirements?

* Is your organization global?

* Is technology a competitive aspect for your organization?

If you answered "yes" to three or more of these questions, you should migrate your business network service to a MPLS. If you answered "yes" to two of these questions, then you should seriously consider this service over Frame Relay or ATM.

MPLS is effectively geared for present day network backbone requirements by providing a standards-based solution that accomplishes the following:

* Increased network performance for packet-forwarding
* Supports QoS and CoS for service differentiation
* Supports network scalability
* Incorporates seamlessly with IP and ATM systems
* Compatible with existing network services

In summary, MPLS offers a more manageable and cost-effective network solution. Not only is the system simpler, but also more responsive, scalable and flexible by offering multiple services.





Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Laura_Rucker