- Overview:
- MPLS is an IP packet routing technique that routes data packets through paths using labels instead of complex routing tables.
- It enhances the delivery rate of IP packets by streamlining the forwarding process.
- MPLS operates at Layer 3 (Internet Protocol) and utilizes routers as forwarding devices.
- Key Concepts:
- Labels: MPLS routes packets based on labels. Each packet has an MPLS header containing a label.
- Label Switch Routers (LSRs):
- LSRs are routers within the MPLS network that understand labels.
- They perform actions like pushing, popping, and swapping labels.
- Provider Edge (PE) Router:
- Located at the edge of the MPLS network, PE routers add or remove labels from IP packets.
- Customer Edge (CE) Router:
- At the edge of the customer network, CE routers send/receive IP packets to/from PE routers.
- MPLS Header:
- The MPLS header is 32 bits long and consists of four parts:
- Label: A 20-bit field with values between 0 and 2^20 – 1.
- Exp (Experimental): A 3-bit field for Quality of Service (QoS).
- Bottom of Stack (S): A 1-bit field indicating whether more labels follow.
- Time to Live (TTL): An 8-bit field decremented at each hop to prevent packet loops.
- The MPLS header is 32 bits long and consists of four parts:
- MPLS Routing and Forwarding:
- Label Distribution Protocol (LDP):
- LSRs learn routes as regular routers do.
- PE routers initially learn routes from CE routers.
- Forwarding Process:
- LSRs receive IP packets from CE routers and add an MPLS header.
- The MPLS header encapsulates the link-layer (Layer 2) frames.
- MPLS forwarding relies on the label attached to the IP packet.
- Label Distribution Protocol (LDP):
- Benefits of MPLS:
- Efficiency: Directs data to its destination without bouncing it all over the internet.
- Advanced Services: Enables value-added services over a single infrastructure.
What is MPLS Multi Protocol Label Switching
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