MPLS
MPLS
MPLS
and carries data from one node to the next based on short path labels rather than longer network
addresses. Here’s how MPLS works:
1. Label Assignment
Label Creation: When a packet enters an MPLS network, it is assigned a label by the ingress router (Label
Edge Router or LER). This label serves as a shortcut for the forwarding process.
Label Stack: MPLS can use a stack of labels, allowing multiple labels to be associated with a single packet
for various purposes, such as traffic engineering or VPN services.
2. Label Switching
Forwarding Based on Labels: Once labeled, packets travel through the MPLS network. Each router in the
MPLS path (known as Label Switching Routers or LSRs) examines the label instead of the IP header to
determine the next hop.
Label Swapping: As packets pass through LSRs, the existing label is swapped for a new label that
indicates the next hop. This process continues until the packet reaches its destination.
3. Traffic Engineering
Path Control: MPLS allows for more efficient routing decisions based on predetermined paths rather
than relying solely on traditional routing protocols. This enables better bandwidth utilization and
management of network resources.
Quality of Service (QoS): MPLS can prioritize certain types of traffic, ensuring that critical applications
receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency.
Establishing Label Bindings: MPLS uses protocols like LDP to distribute labels across the network. LDP
establishes label bindings between routers, allowing them to know which labels are associated with
which routes.
Protocols: In addition to LDP, other protocols like RSVP-TE (Resource Reservation Protocol - Traffic
Engineering) can also be used for more advanced traffic engineering capabilities.
5. Packet Delivery
Egress Router: When a packet reaches its destination, the egress router (another LER) removes the
MPLS label and forwards the packet based on its original IP address.
Final Delivery: The packet is delivered to its final destination using standard Layer 3 forwarding
techniques.
6. Benefits of MPLS
Improved Performance: By reducing the amount of information routers need to examine (labels instead
of full headers), MPLS can increase the speed of packet forwarding.
Flexibility: MPLS supports various network protocols (hence "multiprotocol"), making it adaptable to
different types of traffic.
Scalability: It can efficiently manage large-scale networks with various types of traffic patterns.
Enhanced Security: By creating private networks and isolating traffic, MPLS can enhance security
compared to traditional IP routing.