How is MPLS different from SONET and ATM networks?

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How is MPLS different from SONET and ATM networks?

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Synchronous Optical Network (SONET) is the fiber optic standard that is focused on the physical layers of the OSI model. SONET, and its international equivalent Synchronous Digital

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Hierarchy (SDH), originally define how voice traffic will be carried across the carrier-built fiber optic networks deployed throughout the world. As a Layer-1, physical level protocol, SONET makes link connections along and between these fiber networks. SONET was evolved over time to include data services -- such as frame relay, T1, and OC-3 -- to connect over the fiber links. Because SONET was originally designed for voice and not variable-sized data packets, however, moving data across it was inefficient and required padding data packets with irrelevant data to make up any differences. Asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) was introduced as a solution for this inefficiency. Through the use of hardware network interface adapters, ATM networks break data into smaller cells for transport. ATM over SONET also makes home and business ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) data services possible.
Additional MPLS resources

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MPLS technology overview Learn more about MPLS VPN basics. Find the best MPLS/VPN service for your WAN. Read an excerpt from WAN technologies summarized. In contrast, ATM and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) are data transport protocols, meaning that both reside above the physical data layers in the OSI model and aid in moving data from one point to another. The primary difference between ATM and MPLS is that while ATM was designed to exist in a circuit-switched environment, MPLS has its place within modern packet-switched networks such as Ethernet or IP. This difference is most apparent in how the two types of network topologies are deployed. ATM is primarily designed as a point-to-point connection, requiring an ATM adapter on each end of a physical or virtual circuit. MPLS, on the other hand, operates similar to an Ethernet switch in an any-to-any topology, allowing each of the network endpoints to be connected to the MPLS network and mesh with a particular customers virtual mesh. For ATM to replicate this level of meshing, multiple ATM connections would have to be installed at each of an organizations locations. The multi-protocol nature of MPLS also enables the technology to label and pass other protocols, including ATM, across an MPLS network. Two ATM endpoints, for example, could be connected across an MPLS network, with the network itself quickly guiding traffic to each other transparently. More News and Tutorials Articles Could you compare SONET versus Frame Relay with ATM networks. State of the market for MPLS How to prepare enterprise WANs for MPLS/VPN integration VoIP on MPLS What is the relevance of MPLS in regards to QoS for e-commerce?

MPLS technology overview Are ADSL VPNs a type of MPLS VPN? Understanding MPLS network components How will Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) interact with MPLS-TP in the future? Optical Carrier levels (OCx)

Related glossary terms Terms for Whatis.com - the technology online dictionary OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE) ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

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This was first published in November 2010 Disclaimer: Our Tips Exchange is a forum for you to share technical advice and expertise with your peers and to learn from other enterprise IT professionals. TechTarget provides the infrastructure to facilitate this sharing of information. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or validity of the material submitted. You agree that your use of the Ask The Expert services and your reliance on any questions, answers, information or other materials received through this Web site is at your own risk. Back to top You May Also Be Interested In...
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Computer Networks' PDF: Free chapter download Generic Routing Encapsulation (GRE)
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WAN file protocol optimization: Three ways to accelerate CIFS and NFS Are active-active network configurations possible over MPLS? Email Alerts Register now to receive SearchEnterpriseWAN.com-related news, tips and more, delivered to your inbox.

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Latest Headlines

University networks go back to school with better bandwidth control Riverbed adds inbound QoS to help enterprises prioritize bandwidth Plixer's Scrutinizer sheds light on network traffic for UK manufacturer View All News Enterprise WAN Topics
Topics
Telecom Services

Selecting telecommunications services and providers, Managed services, Cloud computing and SaaS

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How is MPLS different from SONET and ATM networks?

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VPN design, VPN setup and configuration, Remote access, Internet and application security
WAN Design

Bandwidth and capacity planning, Branch office network design, Network disaster recovery, WWANs, VPN Design
Infrastructure

IP networks, Network Infrastructure, WAN protocols

Optimization/Application Performance

Application performance on the WAN, WAN network monitoring, WAN optimization and application acceleration
Hot Topics

Optimization/Application Performance VPNs/Security Infrastructure Tutorials

Guides

Advanced Workshops MPLS VPN fundamentals VoIP over WAN tutorial

Technology Dictionary

Find definitions and links to technical resources Powered by WhatIs.com Expert Advice
Tips

Preparing for a disaster: When remote employees overload your VPN RFP process steps for selecting network carriers and equipment vendors WAN and cloud service management: Simplify life with your providers View All Tips
Answers

How can I ensure app store security for my remote users? What are the biggest risks of BYOD? What's the best type of VPN for connecting an acquired company? View All Answers
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