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MPLS recommended for resilient and reliable networks
The use of multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) to strengthen wide area networks (WANs) is emerging as a popular option for a range of organisations.
A recent report from the European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA) underlined the ability of next-generation network technologies such as MPLS to make existing communications infrastructure more resilient.
The EU security body examined the benefits of three "key technologies" - Internet Protocol version and Domain Name System Security Extensions as well as MPLS - to investigate their potential for boosting network security and performance.
It found that all three systems can be valuable tools for enhancing the resilience of existing networks, although a lack of operational experience and negligible coordination between stakeholders means that they are not currently being used to their full potential.
"The recent spotlight in the news on networks' unavailability, caused by cyber attacks and physical phenomena, highlights the urgency and the importance of ENISA's work on improving the resilience of public communications," commented Andrea Pirotti, executive director of ENISA.
"This is an area vital for European e-government, e-business and ultimately, the economy."
However, EU agencies are not the only organisations that can see the benefits of an MPLS-enhanced WAN, as the technology has become increasingly important to many small firms as well.
For small organisations with staff members working from home, MPLS can help to maintain a resilient network that avoids bandwidth issues and gives remote employees the same level of performance as office-based workers.
According to virtual network firm TFM Networks, deploying a "business-grade MPLS network" with Quality of Service and end-to-end performance guarantees can be the best way for small businesses to roll out a flexible working strategy.
"It is vital to have the right technology in place, backed up by adequate support, to ensure staff are able to work effectively from home and also to ensure businesses meet their obligations as an employer," explained Brett Rowe, director of sales and marketing at the company.
Small enterprises may choose to follow the example of the larger organisations in this regard, as many big firms now deploy MPLS to link networks at various sites.
Manchester Airports Group (MAG), which operates flight hubs in four UK locations, recently implemented MPLS for a next-generation network solution that offers resilience and improved performance.
"It's important that we include a communication network that delivers what we need now in terms of reliability and operational effectiveness, but also has the capacity to grow and evolve with the group as it develops and expands," explained Martin Smith, director of group technology and innovation at MAG.
The group runs airports in Manchester, Bournemouth, East Midlands and Humberside.
If you would like more information on 8el's MPLS Wide Area Network solution, please call our sales team on 0118 338 3062 or email info@8el.com.
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