Companies operate on applications that require consistent and reliable networks. Strong business connectivity is required in cloud platforms, ERP systems, video meetings, remote access and data security. Work slows down when performance is lowered. Failure of links halts operations.
Enterprise discussions are usually faced with two options: MPLS and Internet Leased Lines. They are not equal, and both fulfil different needs. The knowledge of their operation assists companies in selecting the appropriate model to use in their present and future developments.
Understanding MPLS Connectivity
MPLS or Multi-Protocol Label Switching is a proprietary network technology. It links several places with a closed network of a service provider. Labels are used to give priority to traffic, and this reduces congestion.
For several years, MPLS was the default option when it came to enterprises that had several offices.
Where MPLS works well:
- Constant connectivity among fixed places.
- Assured performance of legacy applications.
- Path routing in a private network.
Where MPLS struggles today:
- High cost per location
- Long provisioning times
- Lack of elasticity in cloud-first.
- Difficult management in the expansion of locations.
With business applications being shifted to the cloud, MPLS networks tend to be costly and inflexible.
What Is an Internet Leased Line?
A dedicated, uncontended internet connection is a leased line connection that is provided to a business premise. Bandwidth is not shared as opposed to broadband. There are no daytime variations in speeds.
An internet leased line service provides businesses with direct access to the internet with assured performance and uptime via a Service Level Agreement.
Key Differences That Matter to Businesses
Performance and Speed
MPLS provides routing control, although breakout to the internet is frequently performed at a central point. This may slow cloud access.
Leased lines provide direct internet access. Cloud applications are more responsive. Video calls stay clear. The transfers of files take place in time.
Scalability
The installation of an additional MPLS location is time and costly. Modifications need a network redesign.
Leased lines scale easily. Businesses can upgrade bandwidth as the increase in needs increases. New sites connect faster.
Cost Efficiency
The prices of MPLS are dependent on the distance and the number of locations.
Leased lines have superior value per Mbps. Companies do not pay for complexity; they pay for capacity.
Cloud Readiness
MPLS was created to suit private data centres.
Cloud usage is constructed on leased lines. SaaS, IaaS and the public cloud platforms are better when they have direct internet access.
Reliability and Uptime
MPLS provides stable routing with frequent reliance on one route through the network.
Leased lines are accompanied by high-SLA and can be configured as dual-link to achieve greater resilience.
Security Considerations
MPLS is privately designed, and that is a safe feeling. But the issue of security today is more about encryption, firewalls and monitoring rather than network type.
Leased lines are compatible with sophisticated security applications like firewalls, traffic filtering and monitoring. Leased lines can be used to satisfy the security requirements of an enterprise, with the appropriate provider.
Operational Simplicity
MPLS networks are difficult to administer. Various vendors are usually involved in changes.
Leased line networks are less complicated. Reduced IT effort is achieved by centralised monitoring and reduced dependencies.
Why Many Businesses Are Moving Away from MPLS
The contemporary business requires speed, flexibility, and cloud access. MPLS has a hard time with remote workforces, workloads that are heavy in SaaS, and high growth.
Leased lines are more compatible with the current digital processes. They provide performance without the inflexibility of traditional private networks.
Internet Leased Line by Spectra: Where It Fits In.
The internet leased line service offered by Spectra is intended to serve businesses that cannot afford to be offline or unreliable.
It delivers:
- Uncontended and dedicated bandwidth.
- Strong SLA-backed uptime
- Low latency of cloud and real-time applications.
- Scalability without network redesign.
- Trustworthy service with one service partner.
Spectra offers an easier and more future-proofed route to organisations that are replacing MPLS or constructing new networks.
Choosing the Right Connectivity Model
MPLS remains appropriate to certain legacy applications. However, leased lines are more suitable for most businesses in the modern day, as they are more effective and less complex, with greater cloud support.
With the development of applications and the distribution of teams, the backbone of the operations is a reliable internet. The selection of the appropriate connectivity model is no longer an IT choice. It is a business decision.
By having the right leased line partner, businesses can be fast, have control and confidence to expand without being limited by the network.
