Businesses today, require an agile, efficient, and scalable networking solution to ensure hassle-free operations of their enterprise applications. An enterprise, whether it is small, medium, or large, requires a high-performing networking infrastructure. At present, we have MPLS and SD-WAN technology as great options to achieve high-end networking solutions.
In this article, we will learn which is better- MPLS or SD-WAN infrastructure to be on an enterprise level. Both technologies are enriched with their own good and bad. Here, we are going to discuss all about MPLS and SD-WAN including their benefits and application areas. Further, by going through this article, you will have a better understanding about using the right networking solution for your enterprise.
What is MPLS?
MPLS stands for Multi-Protocol Label Switching. It allows the user to use a pre-defined bandwidth to run different enterprise applications. It is a traditional networking technology that helps in attaining reliable connectivity among branch offices, remote workstations, and data centers. MPLS networking lines are mostly private. Thus, MPLS is managed by service providers that allow enterprises to regulate the flow of traffic and predictive performance.
How does MPLS function?
MPLS utilizes predetermined labels in place of IP addresses to route data. It allows efficient data traffic management and data packet prioritization. For some applications, it is an effective tool to achieve high-quality performance.
What is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN stands for Software-Defined Wide Area Network. It is a modern, flexible, and software-driven networking technology. This technology works by virtualizing the networks, allowing network rerouting and prioritization using simple programming and commands. In this way, it decouples the control plane from the hardware. The SD-WAN tools ensure intelligent traffic routing in real time with the use of AI and ML tools.
How does SD-WAN function?
SD-WAN technology allows the use of the combination of multiple networks like MPLS, 5G, VoLTE, etc. This feature enables the user to provide the desired bandwidth as required by the specific enterprise application. In addition, you can assume a fully functional centralized management and cloud optimization with the deployment of SD-WAN tools in your enterprise.
Discussing the differences between MPLS and SD-WAN technology
In this section, we will discuss the key differences between MPLS and SD-WAN. It will provide you with a better understanding of both the networking architectures.
Cost-wise differences
The cost of deployment, maintenance, and configuration of SD-WAN and MPLS is hugely different:
- MPLS
The cost to deploy MPLS network lines is optimal until you require scalability and dynamic change in bandwidth. Therefore, it is expensive to deploy and maintain. Generally, enterprises need to pay premium to avail MPLS services. The billing is done on the basis of bandwidth used and distance covered by the network.
- SD-WAN
On the contrary, SD-WAN turns out to be a more cost-efficient networking solution to the enterprises. You can use broadband, satellite, 5G, and many other network lines as per the requirement of enterprise applications. This thing enables the network administrators to utilize the least expensive network lines dynamically whenever a bandwidth change is required.
If you want a cost-effective networking solution, you must go for SD-WAN technology without any doubt.
Performance based differences
Let’s discuss the difference between SD-WAN and MPLS on the basis of performance
- MPLS
MPLS should be considered as a predictive and reliable network solution. This network line ensures dedicated and private connections between workstations in different locations. Thus, enterprises can expect congestion-free, fast, and reliable connectivity. This consistent flow of network signals is considered to be the most suitable for VoIP or real-time video conferencing. Therefore, MPLS is demanded most where high-performance requirements are there.
- SD-WAN
SD-WAN technology is a flexible networking opportunity that uses software-defined routing of network signals. In addition, it allows dynamic allocation of the bandwidth required to run low-performing and high-performing applications. It selects the best network path considering the bandwidth, latency, and packet loss. Further, it ensures the use of hybrid WAN configurations.
MPLS is reliable, secure, and high-performing in case of critical business applications. SD-WAN allows flexibility in dynamic path selection and real-time traffic optimization. It is an overall efficient technology that can be deployed on an enterprise-level.
Differences in scalability and flexibility
Scalability and flexibility are the desired goals for businesses. Let’s connect how MPLS and SD-WAN stand for such goals:
- MPLS
MPLS is highly difficult and time-consuming in terms of scalability and flexibility. Also, you will require proper coordination with the service provider if you are planning to deploy MPLS lines at workstations located at different locations. And, in real, this process can turn weeks into months. Therefore, it is challenging in the modern environment as it can inhibit the growth and expansion of businesses.
- SD-WAN
SD-WAN is easy to deploy and configure at any location, even with your existing networking infrastructure. Thus, it fits well with the changing dynamics of modern enterprise architecture. Therefore, you can easily deploy an agile, reliable, and high-performing networking infrastructure using SD-WAN tools anywhere irrespective of the location and time-zone.
In terms of flexibility and scalability, SD-WAN technology is far better than MPLS.
Differences on the basis of security and management
Network security and management are also the important aspects to take care of your enterprise data.
- MPLS
With MPLS, businesses need to deploy additional security tools to enhance the security levels on their network infrastructure. Further, businesses have less direct control and management of the MPLS networks. It is because they are primarily managed by service providers.
- SD-WAN
SD-WAN technology allows enterprises to enjoy the features of end-to-end encryption, Next-generation Firewalls(NGFs), and various other advanced network security protocols. You do not need additional applications to handle cybersecurity threats. Further, all the remote branches connected with a centralized management system to control and regulate everything else on the networks.
Here, SD-WAN technology again wins the debate against MPLS in terms of integrated security features and centralized management system.
Summary
Choosing the one between SD-WAN and MPLS is hard if you consider all the aspects like performance, cost-effectiveness, security features, etc at once. However, for modern architecture of enterprises, which is mostly cloud-based connectivity, SD-WAN solutions suit the most. Still, you should go with your business requirements and budget before deploying any of these networking infrastructures.
FAQs:
- What is MPLS?
MPLS is a hardware-based networking architecture that allows high performance and reliability to critical business applications.
- What is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN technology is a software-base networking solutions that offers high flexibility, agility, scalability, and high performance.