MPLS Introduction

A brief overview of MPLS and its need in today's high speed data networks.

Switching and Routing

A recap on the concepts of routing and switching and the part they play in Label Switching networks.

The OSI Model

An overview of the seven layer OSI model and how MPLS relates to the Layer 2 and Layer 3 protocols.

MPLS Concepts

Outlines the basic concepts of MPLS operation, how paths are mapped through a MPLS enabled network and an overview of the labels used.

Labels

This sections outlines how labels are created and assigned to paths, how multiple labels can be stacked for transfer through a network and how nodes on a MPLS network make use of the labels.

Integrating MPLS

An overview of how MPLS is used with the common transport media that are utilised in data networks. In particular this section outlines the use of MPLS with ATM, the encapsulation of MPLS labels into Frame Relay frames and the use of MPLS with PPP and Ethernet.

MPLS Protocols

MPLS draws upon a number of protocols in order to function and this section looks at the specialist protocols such as label Distribution protocol that is required. In addition it also outlines some of the common protocols such as RSVP that can be used alongside MPLS.

MPLS and Wide Area Networks

This section takes a look at BGP routing and how MPLS can be used to create long distance MPLS enabled domains. It also covers Multicasting of MPLS labels and some of the issues encountered with this process.

Using MPLS

MPLS has a number of applications within today’s demand for high speed networking. This section examines traffic engineering methods and outlines some of the applications for MPLS, in particular Voice over IP, Media Streaming and Virtual Private Networks.