The Role of MPLS in Next-Generation IP/Ethernet Access and Aggregation Networks

This IDC Insight examines the role that recent MPLS technology enhancements supporting the evolution of circuit-switched transport to packet switched network will play in service providers' next-generation access and aggregation network infrastructure.

This document provides an analysis of MPLS in access and aggregation networks and the role of MPLS-TP and MPLS enhancements to configure IP and Ethernet circuits end to end from routers located near the network edge through an optical core and back to routers located near the network edge at the opposite end of the connection. This document also addresses how MPLS may address the packet and transport network convergence opportunities.