Before innovations hit the industries, MPLS was a prevailing technology owing to its high-performing features. However, evolving industrial requirements somewhat proved it to be less useful than earlier. Then, SD-WAN technology came into existence with extra security features, better performance, and scalability.
SD-WAN technology has gained immense recognition ever since its inception. Today, there is not a single industry that relies on this game-changer technology. However, MPLS network lines have been its real rival because of their quality and security features. So, in this article, we will make a comparative analysis of SD-WAN and MPLS based on security, agility, performance, and many more features. But, before this, we must learn about SD-WAN and MPLS in brief.
Learning about SD-WAN & MPLS
MPLS stands for Multiprotocol Label Switching. Under this protocol, data is transmitted in a particular direction along predetermined paths based on short path labels, instead of choosing network addresses. This protocol is perfect for latency-sensitive business applications like voice, video, etc. But, it is not scalable, flexible, and affordable if brought up in large-scale enterprises.
SD-WAN stands for Software-Defined Wide Area Network. Basically, this technology emphasizes more on software rather than hardware setups. It leverages software-based controls and functions to manage network connectivity. This technology has the ability to dynamically reroute traffic among different transport mechanisms. It acts as a modern solution to today’s networking requirements.
Performance analysis of SD-WAN & MPLS
Let’s begin the comparative analysis of SD-WAN & MPLS! We have curated a few points based on which we can fully understand the distinctiveness of these two:
Latency and reliability
SD-WAN solutions can make use of a combination of different networking modes including 5G, VoLTE, satellite, etc. This ability to use the required network type as per the business application’s demands makes it more suitable to be used in every industry. Further, it allows real-time monitoring and troubleshooting to control cybersecurity threats quickly.
MPLS technology is perfect for business applications that demand low latency and high reliability during data transmission. This setup is established on dedicated circuits and guarantees QoS.
Cost-efficiency
SD-WAN tools save the cost of operations a lot in businesses. You can switch to low-cost broadband links if your business application requires so.
MPLS tools can exceptionally be very expensive if you are a large-scale enterprise with complex networking requirements.
Scalability and ease of deployment
SD-WAN tools can be scaled up or down easily because they are primarily dependent on software programs with simple controls and functions.
MPLS consumes a lot of time and is difficult to scale up or down as per enterprise applications’ requirements.
Security analysis of MPLS and SD-WAN
Security is a great concern when it comes to managing business operations with networks. You never know what is the next security breach you will need to manage.
MPLS offers a secure and private transport mechanism to industries. There is a certain limitation of security protocols when remote and distributed workstations are concerned.
SD-WAN technology offers a lot of advanced security features that fulfill today’s networking requirements. Let’s study them:
- Integrated security system
Modern SD-WAN solutions consist of advanced security features like encryption, next-generation firewalls, intrusion detection & prevention systems, etc.
- Access to Zero Trust Network
Zero trust network access makes sure that only authenticated and authorized users are allowed to enter the system.
- Cloud-native security
SD-WAN tools can easily be integrated with SASE(Secure Access Service Edge) applications. Simple integration with SASE applications makes it extremely secure for cloud-based applications.
What do enterprises must prefer out of SD-WAN & MPLS?
The answer of this question lies between the requirements of business applications. If you are a large scale enterprise, you must deploy SD-WAN tools to run your enterprise applications successfully. Further, if you are a small enterprise, you can still prefer MPLS over SD-WAN.
However, you can be answered rightfully, if you contact a reliable IT agency or SD-WAN vendor. An SD-WAN vendor can help you asses your own business requirements and provide you with the right networking tools for your company. Besides this, you can gain actual information about the benefits of SD-WAN. Also, you can modernize your networking infrastructure within your budget with the help of a suitable SD-WAN vendor.
Futuristic possibilities
One more solution towards the solution to your dilemma can be opting a hybrid solution in place of choosing any one.
- Hybrid WAN architecture
Today, enterprises are focussing on utilizing the benefits of both SD-WAN and MPLS in one go. MPLS can handle latency-sensitive business applications well. At the same time, SD-WAN in the enterprise can be utilized to manage other aspects of business applications.
- 5G integration
Ultra-low latency and higher bandwidth are the significant features of 5G. Enterprises can leverage the features of 5G to combat the security, agility, and scalability problems in other networking infrastructures.
- AI-driven network optimization
At present, networking infrastructures can be made proactive with the help of AI. Integration of AI with SD-WAN infrastructure can help it enhance its security features and real-time network monitoring abilities.
Summary
It can be difficult to choose one out of SD-WAN and MPLS. You can get help from a popular IT agency to help you understand your business application requirements. While MPLS can help the applications run flawlessly with higher bandwidths and faster performance, SD-WAN is flexible enough to adapt to the transforming networking requirements of today’s applications. Here, taking help from the experts will be beneficial to offer maximum profits to your organization.
FAQs:
- What is meant by MPLS?
MPLS stands for MultiProtocol Label Switching. It is a perfect choice for small-scale businesses to comply their application requirements. It offers secure and private networking environment for high performing digital applications.
- What is meant by SD-WAN?
SD-WAN refers to software-defined WAN. It is a modernized adaptation of traditional WAN architecture that offers high flexibility, security, efficiency, and scalability.
- Which is the best: MPLS or SD-WAN?
SD-WAN stands out of the crowd if you compare it with MPLS technology owing to its scalable, secure, and high performing features.