MPLS vs. VPN
If you already have a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for your business, why would you want to upgrade to an MPLS network? Here are some major benefits you could enjoy by allowing Gravity Systems to help you make the switch:
Speed
One of the biggest attractions of MPLS as the speed with which it can shoot data from an origin point to its destination. By making use of a private dedicated connection, the packets of data can get straight to where they’re going without a lot of competing traffic from the Internet Superhighway. Additionally, techniques called splitting and label switching allow the packets to hop from lookup point to lookup point (think of them as electronic way stations) with unparalleled speed.
Quality
MPLS systems are monitored constantly, so you can rest assured that if anything glitches, your provider will get on it and iron it out ASAP. MPLS also assigns different bandwidth priorities to different types of information, which ensures the most important stuff (such as voice data) always has the bandwidth it needs. And unlike IP connections, which can wander everywhere in search of a cheaper or stronger signal, MPLS can be re-routed along pre-arranged routes to ensure quality connections at all times.
Security
Because it lives in the “Wild West” of the Internet, an IP-based VPN is more vulnerable to security problems than an MPLS system, which isolates your traffic from all those other bits and bytes zipping around out there.
Are there times when a traditional VPN makes more sense for your network than an MPLS setup? Possibly! Gravity Systems can evaluate your needs to determine whether certain problematic branches might do better with a VPN while others reap all the benefits of an MPLS connection. Contact us and we’ll be happy to take a look at your layout.