Today we will cover the differences between a VPN v/s MPLS. The internet has long transcended the boundaries of limited application. Thus, we can find it integrated within different domains of society. No longer a simple means of connectivity, it has shown how the world revolves around it. Galloping advancement and emerging technologies surround us, broadening the spectrum of choices available to an entity. However, not all tech is created equal. With this in mind, we will do a feature on VPN v/s MPLS, uncovering their fundamental differences. We will compare them based on defined parameters and figure out which technology to back. We will also try to understand the application of MPLS within a VPN and vice versa with the latest iteration of MPLS VPNs. So if you are interested in technology and find yourself worrying about the implication of its widespread implementation, you are in the right place.
What is a VPN?
Before we set the tone for this article, a quick recap about VPN is in place. However, those interested in a detailed explanation can check our previous article on VPN and how it works. Moving on, to keep it short, we can describe a VPN as a private and virtual network that runs atop a public connection like the internet. It uses security protocols like the PPTP, L2TP, IKEv2, OpenVPN, WireGuard, etc., to connect the VPN client and server via a tunnel. This tunnel is the result of protocols. And it is capable of encapsulation and encryption of any inbound/outbound online traffic. Thus, it ensures no other unrelated party can pry into your online activity.
A VPN is your best bet when it comes to online safety. With the aid of encryption, it secures your data and prevents cybercrime like identity theft, stalking, IP address snooping, bullying, fraud, etc. Furthermore, it allows you to access the internet via a remote server located far away from you. Doing so helps in keeping your IP address hidden behind the server IP, thus ensuring your privacy. It also allows you to bypass certain geo-restrictions to access your favorite foreign content. A VPN can help you fight censorship and protect your data. Most high-pressure job professionals rely on premium VPN vendors for their data privacy and safety.
Surely other tools can help you in the quest for online safety, such as the famous proxy server – SOCKSV5 or The Onion Router browser. But nothing comes close to the reliability and simplicity a VPN offers. Not only is the tech easy to use, but it is also an embodiment of specialized protection. Even the FBI endorses the use of VPNs to fight against cybercrime.
What is MPLS?
Similarly, we can also consider MPLS as a private network. However, unlike the regular networks that use IP addresses for routing data packets, the MPLS network uses labels based on an FEC to route data. It is faster and more efficient than IP routing. Why? Because the network uses pre-determined paths known as LSP to transfer data. While other routing networks always use different routes for packets, MPLS can use the same roads for similar data packets. The Multiprotocol Label Switching network classify data packet based on their origin, type, priority, and destination and assign each one a Forwarding Equivalence Class (FEC). Then, based on predefined rules, the FECs are allotted LSP (Label Switching Path) suitable for them.
Thus, when a packet enters the network, the Ingress router or the Entry/Edge router assigns it a label that contains an MPLS header. The header is made of FEC and has information regarding the defined LSP. All the router needs to do is: send the data packet along the LSP as defined in the MPLS header. And since this network relies on custom MPLS headers to forward data, it can support many protocols, hence the name. MPLS is a popular technology in the telecommunication field. It has enjoyed widespread implementation and bears numerous benefits.
MPLS operates within layers 2 & 3 of the OSI hierarchy. When it comes to MPLS, due to the advanced scalability, they can support the structure of a VPN atop its architecture. Meaning, the technology can be running a VPN independently on its network plus integrating a joint VPN networking structure. MPLS VPN is the result of an amalgamation between MPLS and VPN technology, which we will cover briefly in the latter parts of this article.
Comparison between a VPN and MPLS
| Parameter | MPLS | VPN |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of Operations | MPLS operates on a carrier-provided custom network. | VPN works on the regular internet. However, it can also function on almost every network, MPLS included. |
| Type of Technology | Multi-point | Point-to-point and Multi-point |
| Supported Platforms/Accessibility | It can support networking devices that work at layer3 of the OSI model. | It can support routers, firewalls, gateways, bridges, and almost every other networking device; both physical and virtual |
| OSI layer | It is a layer2.5 service. It sits between layers 2 & 3 in the OSI hierarchy. | It can function up to the seven layers of the OSI model. |
| Encryption | MPLS doesn’t support encryption. | Most VPNs offer military-grade encryption as a measure of security. |
| Multicast Support | It can support multicast traffic. | It has a broader application and requires only a traditional internet connection to function. |
| Routing | It uses labels for routing data packets. | It uses traditional routing methods based on IP addresses. |
| Associated terms | VRF, RD, RT, MP-BGP | IPsec, SSL, Remote VPN, Concentrator |
| Cost | Costly | Cheaper than MPLS |
| Remote site limitations | Very limited. It needs a previously laid infrastructure. | It has a broader application. It requires a traditional internet connection to function. |
| Traffic priority | It can prioritize network traffic. | It can not prioritize traffic. |
| Type of service | It caters to corporates and businesses. | It provides services to both personal and professional spheres. |
| Network architecture | Mostly virtual but needs physical infrastructure. | A virtual network based on hardware/software or hybrid infrastructure. |
| Cloud services | It does not have much to offer in terms of cloud support. | It has a broad and specified spectrum of cloud services. |
| Reliability | It is more reliable due to the QoS. | It can be reliable but only for delay-sensitive traffic. |
VPN v/s MPLS: Differences
Some distinguishing differences between a VPN v/s MPLS are as follows:
- A VPN uses encryption for online traffic, but an MPLS network doesn’t endorse any encryption practices.
- Although MPLS uses multi-point technology, a VPN is capable of both point-to-point and multi-point.
- A VPN can work at any layer of the OSI model; As opposed to the MPLS that can only function between layers 2 & 3.
- Unsurprisingly, a VPN is cheaper than implanting an MPLS network.
- While a customer can set up and configure their VPN, MPLS needs professional and technical handling by the provider.
- A customer can control the routing and network traffic within a VPN. However, MPLS relies on providers.
There are several other differences too, but for the sake of our article on VPN v/s MPLS, we will observe them under different categories or factors.
Following are the specified difference between a VPN and MPLS based on factors like:
Technology
| MPLS | VPN |
|---|---|
| It uses a carrier-provided network. | It can work on any network. |
| It revolves around multi-point connectivity. | It can use both point-to-point as well as multi-point. |
| The provider controls the network traffic. | A customer has total control over traffic flow. |
| MPLS needs a carrier to lay out a network in advance. | VPN has no restrictions regarding network as it can use a regular internet connection for communication purposes. |
| LSP, FEC, IR, LDP, RT, RD, VRF, FIB, etc., are some of the terms associated with the MPLS network. | DMVPN, IPsec, PPTP, Tunneling, L2TP, etc., are the terms familiar with VPNs. |
| It can provide limited cloud services. | It offers a broader array of cloud-based services. |
| It works on an MPLS WAN bandwidth. | It works by utilizing internet bandwidth via tunneling, encryption, etc. |
Standards
| MPLS | VPN |
|---|---|
| It operates within layers 2 & 3 of the OSI hierarchy. People also refer to it as a layer2.5 service | A VPN can function at all seven layers of the OSI model. |
| MPLS doesn’t use encryption. | It uses encryption to protect the data traffic within the network. |
| MPLS is proficient with multicast support. | A VPN can support multicast. However, IPsec VPN is an exception to this. For multicast support on an IPsec VPN, one will need GRE implementation. |
Commercial and customer value
| MPLS | VPN |
|---|---|
| The target customer for the MPLS network is larger enterprises. | A VPN has a broader customer base. From individuals to corporate, it is multi-dimensional. And with a concentrator, even global enterprises can employ a VPN. |
| The management of an MPLS network is entirely up to the service provider. | However, a VPN customer can manage and administer it without issues. |
| It relies on the service provider for connectivity. | A VPN can run on any network. |
| Due to provider involvement, MPLS tends to get a higher quality of service, albeit at higher prices. | Although VPNs offer customer support, it is inferior to an MPLS in this regard but also cheaper. |
| Configuring an MPLS is simple, as it relies on the provider. Still, CE configuration is smoother than VPN implementation within a network. | Configuring various VPN networking devices can be a chore. |
| Since it allows traffic prioritization, the relevant user experience and service reliability are enhanced. | VPNs cant prioritize traffic and are less reliable. |
| As it relies on a pre-planned carrier network for deployment, it can get delayed a bit. | VPNs are easy to deploy as they can run on regular IP networks. |
VPN v/s MPLS: Which one to choose?
When considering VPN v/s MPLS, one has to remember that both have their advantages and disadvantages. So the questions regarding a choice between them are based on user expectations and requirements. One can do a cost-benefit analysis for a quick preview on which tech to employ. According to your business needs (with supporting factors like cost, security, availability, QoS, speed, and so on), if you need a critical real-time application on your network, then undoubtedly, MPLS is the way to go. Otherwise, a VPN can satiate most of your business essentials.
They are both different concepts and technology. However, since they both use a dedicated route to accomplish tasks, a comparison is inevitable. While the purpose of an MPLS network is to assist in faster forwarding and supporting non-TCP/IP packets, VPNs can secure traffic over public networks. But comparing them is like comparing apples and oranges. Both VPN and MPLS are different technologies with distinct concepts.; Serving specific purposes, the only similarity is their ability to create a private network.
A VPN v/s MPLS is not a straightforward affair. So do a cost-benefit analysis before making your decisions. However, Fun fact! MPLS can configure VPN on top of it. The service known as MPLS VPN may be what you need? We will briefly cover MPLS VPNs in this topic.
What is an MPLS VPN?
MPLS VPN is the most sought-after and widespread implementation of MPLS technology. According to Wikipedia, “A VPN that can extend a private network across a public one, allowing the users to share resources as if they are using an MPLS network.” It combines the best of both techs; The versatility of a VPN with the speed of MPLS. VPNs have been around longer than MLS. ATM or Frame relay technologies, providing VPN features at layer2, were popular before the advent f MPLS networks. However, in the case of MPLS VPNs, the multiprotocol label switching forms the backbone network over which a VPN service gets deployed. This implementation of a virtual network on top of existing network infrastructure (Underlay) is called an Overlay. Thus, overlaying a VPN on an underlain MPLS increases the scalability of the network and supports multi-tendency.
The typical MPLS VPN consists of PE (Provider Edge) routers, P (Provider) routers, CE (Customer Edge) routers, and C (Customer) routers. The PE and CE connect to layer3 and run MPLS VPN as a service. Hence, they use labels for forwarding traffic. Thus, the routing within the MPLS VPN works with the help of LSPs. Now, every data that enters the MPLS VPN gets two labels. One VPN label specifying the corresponding receiver and another MPLS label to route the packet via MPLS tech.
Doing so not only makes the data secure, but it also makes the traffic much faster. It also allows for the prioritization of traffic. Thus, MPLS VPNs demonstrate how the amalgamation of different yet relevant tech can bring about grander results. Detailed below are the three distinct implementations of an MPLS VPN.
Point to point (pseudowire)
Point-to-point MPLS VPNs employ VLL (Virtual Leased Lines) for providing point-to-point connectivity between two sites. Remember how we previously stated how an MPLS cant provide a point-to-point connection? That’s why VPNs are popular. With the aid of the scalability an MPLS network offers, when paired with a VPN, MLS VPNs can connect pointed remote sites. Furthermore, Ethernet, TDM, and ATM frames can also be privy to encapsulation within this implementation.
Layer2 VPN (VPLS)
The second implementation happens at layer2 of the OSI. Hence, we call it the “Layer 2 MPLS VPN” or VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service). It offers a “switch in the cloud” style service. VPLS provides the ability to span virtual LANs between multiple sites. It is typically used to route voice, video, and AMI traffic between substation and data center at high priority while maintaining quality.
Layer3 VPN (VPRN)
Lastly, at layer3, the MPLS VPN implementation is known as VPRN or Virtual Private Routed Network. The service utilizes the layer3 VPN/VRF (Virtual Routing and Forwarding) to segment routing tables for each customer; running the service. The customer undergoes peering with the service provider router, and the two negotiate routes based on customer-specific routing tables. However, Multiprotocol BGP (MP-BGP) is required “in the cloud” to utilize this service. It greatly enhances the complexity of design and implementation.