Tech Insights

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)

Last updated May 19, 2025, generated by Sumble

What is Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)?

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is a data forwarding technique for increasing the speed and controlling the flow of network traffic. It operates by inserting labels between the data link layer and network layer headers, enabling faster and more efficient routing based on these labels rather than complex IP address lookups. MPLS is commonly used in VPNs, traffic engineering, and quality of service (QoS) implementations within service provider networks and enterprise WANs.

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What other technologies are related to Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS)?

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Competitor Technologies

Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)

GRE can be used to create tunnels for VPNs, similar to MPLS, although less efficiently in many cases. As such, it can compete with MPLS in certain VPN applications.

mentioned alongside Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) in 73% (83) of relevant job posts

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Complementary Technologies

Label-switched Path (LSP)

LSP is a fundamental component of MPLS. It's the path along which labeled packets are forwarded.

mentioned alongside Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) in 100% (51) of relevant job posts

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)

OSPF is an Interior Gateway Protocol that can be used as a control plane protocol to distribute routing information used by MPLS.

mentioned alongside Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) in 34% (112) of relevant job posts

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)

BGP is an Exterior Gateway Protocol that is often used to distribute VPN routes in MPLS networks. It is an essential component of many MPLS VPN implementations.

mentioned alongside Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) in 25% (142) of relevant job posts