MPLS and Next-Generation Networks: Foundations for NGN and Enterprise Virtualization

IP/MPLS presents an opportunity for service providers to evolve their networks and services toward convergence, where intelligence and the service creation function exist at the network edge therein resulting in a multiservice architecture. This potential for service providers means optimizing economies of scale by creating new services and reducing operating expense. For the customer of a managed service, enhanced services and a reduction of total cost of ownership are possible benefits. For the enterprise, reducing operating cost and increasing WAN efficiency are motivators for deploying IP/MPLS.