Whether you operate a growing company with multiple branches or manage cloud-heavy applications across remote teams, your network infrastructure plays a pivotal role in your success. Two leading options are MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) and SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network). Each has their own strengths and drawbacks, but understanding them is the first step toward making an informed decision that supports your business’s goals.
Keep reading to learn more about the key differences between SD-WAN and MPLS with 561 Communications!
Understanding MPLS
MPLS has been the gold standard for enterprise-grade networking. It’s a routing technique that directs data along predetermined, highly efficient paths, ensuring consistent performance. Rather than relying on IP-based routing, MPLS uses labels to move packets across the network, minimizing delays and providing stability.
Key Benefits of MPLS:
- Predictable Latency: Ensures smooth performance for real-time applications like VoIP and video conferencing.
- High Reliability: MPLS connections are typically backed by service-level agreements (SLAs), ensuring uptime.
- Private Connections: Enhanced security by keeping data off the public internet.
However, MPLS can be expensive, especially when connecting multiple branch locations. It also lacks agility in cloud-first environments, where direct access to cloud platforms is essential.
What Is SD-WAN?
SD-WAN is a more recent innovation, designed to meet the demands of cloud-based applications, remote workforces, and cost-conscious organizations. It uses centralized software to manage and route traffic across multiple types of connections, including broadband, LTE, and MPLS.
Why More Companies Are Switching to SD-WAN:
- Dynamic Path Selection: Routes traffic in real time based on performance metrics like jitter, packet loss, and latency.
- Enhanced Cloud Access: Provides direct and secure connections to cloud services like Microsoft 365, AWS, and Salesforce.
- Lower Cost of Ownership: Reduces reliance on expensive leased lines.
- Business Continuity: If one link fails, traffic is automatically redirected to another, keeping operations running.
SD-WAN relies on public internet connectivity, so it requires advanced security protocols and active monitoring to match MPLS in reliability. If you are interested in SD-WAN, 561 Communications can help you design a modern, agile network that meets your specific needs!
SD-WAN vs. MPLS: Which Is Best?
Choosing between MPLS and SD-WAN depends on your business’s size, budget, growth plans, and digital priorities. To make it easier, here’s a detailed comparison:
MLPS
- Cost: Higher due to dedicated circuits
- Reliability: Very high with SLAs
- Cloud Optimization: Limited direct integration
- Security: Built-in private network
- Scalability: Slower, more expensive
- Control & Visibility: Limited
SD-WAN
- Cost: Lower with internet-based connectivity
- Reliability: High with proper setup
- Cloud Optimization: Excellent for SaaS and cloud platforms
- Security: Requires firewalls, encryption, etc.
- Scalability: Rapid deployment across sites
- Control & Visibility: Real-time analytics and insights
Weighing your options? Connect with 561 Communications to get expert advice on whether SD-WAN or MPLS is ideal for your network.
Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds?
For some organizations, the answer is using both. A hybrid WAN combines the security and predictability of MPLS with the flexibility and cost-efficiency of SD-WAN. For example, mission-critical applications like voice and video might run over MPLS, while less sensitive data traffic can route through broadband via SD-WAN.
This dual-path strategy maximizes network performance without compromising cost or reliability. Businesses can prioritize traffic based on type, application, or destination.
What Makes 561 Communications Different?
561 Communications brings networking expertise to businesses across industries. Our team understands that no two companies are the same, and neither are their network needs.
Why Work With 561 Communications?
- Tailored Solutions: We don’t offer cookie-cutter packages. Every network solution is customized to your infrastructure and goals.
- Vendor-Neutral Advice: With access to top-tier technology providers, we help you choose the right tools, not just the ones with the most marketing.
- Comprehensive Support: From network assessments to deployment and monitoring, our team walks with you every step of the way.
Your business network is the backbone of daily operations. As demands on bandwidth, performance, and agility continue to grow, it’s essential to choose the right solution.
Ready to elevate your network? Contact us at 561 Communications today for a consultation!