Use of MPLS Internet for Corporate Networks

 The use of MPLS Internet delivers significant cost savings. With MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) service, it introduces an innovative solution for corporate networks that’s made attainable, affordable and safe for linking. Unlike existing VPN solutions based on Frame Relay, ATM, IPSec), MPLS is a solution that is not used for additional VPN and firewall hardware. This of course saves up on all the ADDITIONAL costs. Moreover, access does not necessarily have to run over leased lines. MPLS Internet provides the ability to use connection based on DSL, which is at a substantial cost advantage. Company data and applications that run over the VPN from the client are secure, because the VPN is included in the MPLS Internet network. Due to the scalability of the MPLS network changes - for example the number of users of new applications finds it rather easy to implement them in the VPN. Companies with existing standard applications available to their offices and partners can incorporate MPLS network easily into their system. Compared with other MPLS Internet solutions, MPLS VPN is very suitable for e-business applications to communicate over a network.

AT&T MPLS is one of the world's leading providers of communications solutions and services operating in over 180 countries worldwide. Its principal activities include worldwide delivery of networked IT services - local, national and international telecommunications services to clients for home, office and on the go, as well as for products and services in the areas of broadband and the Internet, and the converged fixed / mobile products and services. AT&T consists principally of four divisions: Global Services, Open Reach, Retail and Wholesale.

Virtual Private LAN Services (VPLS), also known as E-LAN is an Ethernet service that is implemented by network operators in Ethernet networks, national IP and MPLS networks, and business customers of VPNs with multi-point connection features. With the VPLS service, companies can simplify the management of dispersed corporate networks. These are the services to the various local networks that are managed as if they are in a local network. VPLS uses adaptive edge routers, which are based on MPLS Internet interconnection. The combination of the Layer-2 Ethernet and MPLS paths works by simulating pseudowire circuits.

VPLS services emulate local networks (LAN) over MPLS Internet and IP networks. They are an economical alternative to ATM and Frame Relay WAN with some advantages in terms of faster service, activation and provisioning, and better scaling. In addition, VPLS is characterized by a simpler network management. Users use VPLS as a multi-site Ethernet in VPN services and Ethernet services. VPLS is supported by the Metro developed Ethernet Forum (MEF) and the IEEE working group dealing with the Resilient Packet Ring.