Managing Voice & Video with MPLS

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Significant convergence in networking infrastructure has occurred in the past decade, impelled by the emergence of multi-protocol label switching (MPLS). Enormous productivity and efficiency gains are inherent in this convergence; and by providing connectivity of multiple decentralized
offices, MPLS creates considerable savings for companies that previously relied on smaller ATM and frame-relay connections.

However, growing demands on IP infrastructure weigh heavily on many IT departments. In the past, networks primarily were devoted to providing data, such as emails and files. But increasing use of voice-over-IP (VOIP) and video over IP in WAN and LAN environments is straining network bandwidth.

A successful MPLS network supports bandwidth-intensive applications of data, voice, and video. especially for voice and video that lack the tolerance for latency--the time it takes for data to get from one location to another. Reliable service for such applications can only be achieved by carefully planning and implementing an infrastructure through an appropriate carrier and equipment manufacturer.

Quality of Service (QoS), which allows prioritization for demanding applications across the WAN and LAN environments, has been key to the success of MPLS. And businesses experience greater flexibility and positioning for growth with MPLS as the demand for voice and video grow. But as the network converges, it becomes increasingly difficult to manage and monitor QoS and bandwidth allocations to demanding applications. Carriers also face increasing pressure to provide SLAs (Service Level Agreements) to assure end-to-end performance.

With gains in productivity and efficiency come cost-savings, and many companies have implemented these technologies. However, creating this infrastructure requires significant investment, and IT departments must still thoroughly research, test, and develop the converged network. Thoughtful selection of tools, connectivity, and vendors is vital, as is having skilled, experienced resources to provide for present and future technology needs.