Connectivity Decisions: Should Your Business Go for MPLS or an Internet Leased Line?
In today’s digital age, businesses of all sizes rely on reliable and high-speed internet connectivity to operate effectively. With the ever-increasing volume of data being generated and transmitted, businesses need to make informed decisions about the type of connectivity that is right for their needs. Two of the most common options are MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) and internet leased lines.
What is MPLS?
MPLS technology creates a virtual private network (VPN) over the public internet. It uses labels to prioritise and route traffic, which can improve performance and reliability. MPLS is a good option for businesses with multiple locations that need to communicate with each other securely.
What are Internet Leased Lines?
Leased lines are dedicated connections between two points that provide a direct, private path. Leased lines offer symmetrical bandwidth, which means that upload and download speeds are the same. This can be important for businesses that need to transfer large amounts of data quickly.
MPLS vs. Internet Leased Line: Which is Right for Your Business?
The best type of connectivity for your business will depend on your specific needs and requirements. Here is a table that summarises the key differences between MPLS and internet leased lines:
| Features | MPLS | Leased Line |
| Technology | VPN over public internet | Dedicated connection |
| Performance | High performance and reliability | Symmetrical bandwidth |
| Security | Good security | Excellent security |
| Scalability | Highly scalable | Less scalable |
| Cost | More expensive than leased lines | Less expensive than MPLS |
Here are some other factors to consider when making your decision:
The size and location of your business: MPLS is a good option for businesses with multiple locations that need to communicate securely with each other. Leased lines are a good option for businesses with a single location that need a high-speed, dedicated connection.
The types of applications you use: If you use cloud-based applications or transfer large amounts of data, MPLS or a leased line can provide the performance you need. A standard internet leased lines connection may be sufficient if you primarily use web-based applications.
Your budget: MPLS is usually more expensive than leased lines, but it may be worth the cost if you need additional performance. Leased lines are a good option for businesses that need a high-speed connection but have a limited budget.
Nurture IT can help you decide which connectivity option is right for your business. We can assess your specific needs and requirements and recommend the best solution for your organisation.
Besides the factors mentioned above, here are some other considerations:
The availability of MPLS and leased lines in your area: Not all areas have access to MPLS or leased lines. If MPLS is not available in your area, a leased line may be your only option.
Your service level agreement (SLA): Your SLA is a contract with your provider that outlines the level of service you can expect. Be sure to read the SLA carefully before you sign up for any service.
Your provider’s customer service: It’s important to choose a provider with a good reputation for customer service. This is critical if you need help troubleshooting problems or making changes to your service.
Final Words
The choice between MPLS and Internet Leased Lines depends on various factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A thorough analysis of your business’s specific requirements, budget considerations, and growth plans is essential. Whether you prioritise a secure and private network (MPLS) or need a dedicated, reliable internet leased lines connection (ILL), both options have their merits and can significantly impact your business’s connectivity and overall performance.
About Nurture IT
Nurture IT, one of the leading IT service providers in Bangalore, offers customised scalable technology solutions specifically designed for our client’s unique needs. Our solutions accelerate growth, reduce costs and enable collaboration. As a preferred partner to technology leaders like Microsoft and Cisco, we deploy the most advanced business technology solutions to ensure optimal reliability, productivity and value.
