Multiprotocol Label Switching

MPLS speeds up network traffic. When forwarding packets, the Layer 2 (Switching) label is used to avoid complex destination lookups in the routing table. MPLS uses Label Switched Paths (LSPs) to establish the network path. The packet will be labeled so that service providers can decide the best way to keep traffic flowing. The Multiprotocol Label Switching Transport Profile (MPLS-TP) extensions to MPLS are designed to meet service provider requirements and are used as a network layer technology in transport networks. MPLS-TP gives service providers a reliable packet-based technology that is based on circuit-based transport networking. MPLS-TP is expected to be a low cost L2 technology (if the limited profile is implemented in isolation) that will provide QoS (Quality of Service), end-to-end OAM and protection switching.