MPLS vs SD-WAN: A Clear Explanation of Their Differences and Benefits

Introduction to MPLS and SD-WAN

Data network connectivity has become a cornerstone of modern business operations, ensuring smooth and efficient communication between remote offices, cloud services, and other essential resources. Two of the most discussed technologies in this context are Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) and Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN). Both offer advanced network solutions, but they come with different characteristics and benefits. This article aims to provide a clear explanation of how MPLS and SD-WAN work, and how they differ in terms of cost, performance, and flexibility.

MPLS: An Overview

MPLS is a packet-switched network technology that provides advanced routing capabilities, enabling dynamic and efficient data delivery. It works by attaching labels to network packets to guide them through the network, ensuring that data travels along the most optimal route at any given time. Though highly effective, MPLS has a few drawbacks, particularly in terms of cost and flexibility.

Cost Considerations of MPLS

MPLS can be quite expensive, especially when compared to SD-WAN. This is primarily due to the fact that MPLS requires a dedicated network infrastructure, which involves not only the initial setup but also ongoing maintenance and upgradations. Additionally, MPLS relies on a single high-bandwidth connection per site, which can be costly both in terms of equipment and monthly service fees.

SD-WAN: An Introduction

SD-WAN, on the other hand, provides significant cost efficiencies and enhanced network optimization. SD-WAN leverages distributed private data traffic exchange and control points to connect multiple locations. This technology allows businesses to utilize multiple high/low bandwidth and inexpensive internet connections, including business-class cable, 4G, and fiber. By aggregating these connections, SD-WAN ensures a consistent and fast internet experience.

Bandwidth and Performance

One of the key differences between MPLS and SD-WAN is in the way they manage bandwidth and performance. MPLS connections with high bandwidth, such as 100 Mbps, can be prohibitively expensive. SD-WAN, however, enables companies to fully leverage multiple inexpensive internet connections. This flexibility allows for a more dynamic bandwidth management strategy, optimizing the use of resources whether the needs are high or low priority.

Performance and Uptime

SD-WAN also excels in terms of performance and uptime. It can dynamically route low-priority traffic and automatically selects the most efficient path for internet traffic, even with multiple ISP connections. In contrast, MPLS has a static Class of Service (CoS) setting, which can limit the ability to adjust on-the-fly. SD-WAN offers a more flexible approach, ensuring consistent performance even during failures or congestion.

Performance at Small Remote or International Sites

Another advantage of SD-WAN is its effectiveness at small remote or international sites. These locations may not be ideal for MPLS due to high costs or inaccessibility. SD-WAN provides an alternative where businesses can achieve seamless circuit redundancy without the need for expensive MPLS circuits. Despite potential limitations with MPLS, SD-WAN ensures that no site is left without reliable and efficient network connectivity.

No Longer Imprisoned by Your ISP

MPLS further complicates network management by locking companies into a single service provider at each site, leading to significant challenges in switching providers. In contrast, SD-WAN is designed to be ISP-agnostic, allowing for easy addition or removal of ISPs at any time, without the need to change your network architecture.

Conclusion

In summary, while MPLS offers robust and reliable network connectivity, it comes with a high cost and limited flexibility. SD-WAN, on the other hand, provides a more cost-effective, scalable, and flexible solution. Whether you are managing a network with multiple sites or looking to optimize connectivity at small remote or international locations, SD-WAN is a compelling option. Choose the technology that best fits your needs, and take advantage of the benefits it offers to enhance your business operations.

Keywords

MPLS, SD-WAN, Network Connectivity