MPLS networks provide reliable and quick communication in business networks, broadband and VoIP telecommunication, but what else should you know about them?
What is MPLS?
MPLS stands for multi-protocol label switching. The internet and traditional networks use a method of transferring data known as Internet Protocol, or IP. This technology sends packets of information along a network, but these packets can’t be labelled or categorised. An MPLS connection solves this shortcoming by adding labels to IP packets. It doesn’t replace the IP system, but introduces a set of rules that can be added to the system to make it more efficient.
Fortunately, you don’t have to know the technical details of MPLS to benefit from the technology. MPLS is used for business networks, broadband connections over telephone lines, and internet-based telephone systems or VoIP. MPLS technology creates more reliable and secure communications. For example, it means conference calls made over systems such as Skype should not experience signal drop-offs and critical applications will have enough bandwidth available. Also, MPLS connections use a different layer to make it more secure to protect businesses from cybercrime.
Furthermore, MPLS provides businesses with an excellent virtual private network (VPN) option because it means they don’t need to install firewalls at multiple locations. With many modern businesses operating across multiple locations and using remote workers, having traffic directed through a single router is an efficient and secure solution.
How to find the best MPLS network service provider
There are many MPLS network service providers available, but to find the best, you need to ask a number of questions.
Do they fulfil my use of MPLS?
Businesses vary in their bandwidth requirements, so need broadband and VoIP that will provide the performance they need. The MPLS services you choose should integrate seamlessly into your existing network infrastructure.
How long do they take to set up the MPLS circuit?
Businesses require MPLS services to be deployed quickly and without interrupting their operations. When an MPLS network services provider provides an installation date, they should stick to that date.
Can they get it right the first time?
Complex MPLS networks need careful planning and technical expertise. Experienced MPLS providers will analyse the network requirements and should install MPLS networks that work first time without any major bugs.
Does the MPLS provider have good customer service?
No network service is 100% reliable, and since occasional issues are inevitable, it’s important to know how the provider responds to them.
Your MPLS network service provider should have excellent customer service so that any issues are promptly sorted out. Customer service personnel should have a good technical knowledge and the ability to diagnose problems quickly. They need to find out which application, device or user is the root of the problem. They may have to trace the path of the problem across the whole network.
Are they good to do business with?
A provider that is good to do business with is flexible and responsive to any request for modifications to the service. If you want any changes to the MPLS network, these should be done quickly.
Why choose POP Telecom?
At POP Telecom, we’re experts in MPLS technology and could be ideally placed to help your organisation with these systems. Our services are reliable and excellent value for money. To learn more about our MPLS-based services and how your business can benefit from them, simply contact us today.