https://www.channelfutures.com/wp-content/themes/channelfutures_child/assets/images/logo/footer-new-logo.png
  • Home
  • Technologies
    • Back
    • SDN/SD-WAN
    • Cloud
    • RMM/PSA
    • Security
    • Telephony/UC/Collaboration
    • Cable
    • Mobility & Wireless
    • Fiber/Ethernet
    • Data Centers
    • Backup & Disaster Recovery
    • IoT
    • Desktop
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Analytics
  • Strategy
    • Back
    • Mergers and Acquisitions
    • Channel Research
    • Business Models
    • Distribution
    • Technology Services Brokerages
    • Sales & Marketing
    • Best Practices
    • Vertical Markets
    • Regulation & Compliance
    • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • MSP 501
    • Back
    • MSP 501 Information Center
    • 2021 MSP 501 Rankings
  • Intelligence
    • Back
    • Galleries
    • Podcasts
    • From the Industry
    • Reports/Digital Issues
    • Webinars
    • White Papers
  • Channel Futures TV
  • EMEA
  • Channel Chatter
    • Back
    • People on the Move
    • New/Changing Channel Programs
    • New Products & Services
    • Industry Honors
  • Resources
    • Back
    • Advisory Boards
    • Industry Organizations
    • Our Sponsors
    • Advertise
    • 2022 Editorial Calendar
  • Awards
    • Back
    • 2021 MSP 501
    • Circle of Excellence
    • DE&I 101
    • Top Gun 51
    • Channel Partners 101 (CP 101)
  • Events
    • Back
    • CP Conference & Expo
    • MSP Summit
    • Channel Partners Europe
    • Channel Partners Event Coverage
    • Webinars
    • Industry Events
  • About Us
  • DE&I
Channel Futures
  • NEWSLETTER
  • Home
  • Technologies
    • Back
    • SDN/SD-WAN
    • Cloud
    • RMM/PSA
    • Security
    • Telephony/UC/Collaboration
    • Cable
    • Mobility & Wireless
    • Fiber/Ethernet
    • Data Centers
    • Backup & Disaster Recovery
    • IoT
    • Desktop
    • Artificial Intelligence
    • Analytics
  • Strategy
    • Back
    • Mergers and Acquisitions
    • Channel Research
    • Business Models
    • Distribution
    • Technology Services Brokerages
    • Sales & Marketing
    • Best Practices
    • Vertical Markets
    • Regulation & Compliance
    • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
  • MSP 501
    • Back
    • MSP 501 Information Center
    • 2021 MSP 501 Rankings
  • Intelligence
    • Back
    • Galleries
    • Podcasts
    • From the Industry
    • Reports/Digital Issues
    • Webinars
    • White Papers
  • Channel Futures TV
  • EMEA
  • Channel Chatter
    • Back
    • People on the Move
    • New/Changing Channel Programs
    • New Products & Services
    • Industry Honors
  • Resources
    • Back
    • Advisory Boards
    • Industry Organizations
    • Our Sponsors
    • Advertise
    • 2022 Editorial Calendar
  • Awards
    • Back
    • 2021 MSP 501
    • Circle of Excellence
    • DE&I 101
    • Top Gun 51
    • Channel Partners 101 (CP 101)
  • Events
    • Back
    • CP Conference & Expo
    • MSP Summit
    • Channel Partners Europe
    • Channel Partners Event Coverage
    • Webinars
    • Industry Events
  • About Us
  • DE&I
    • Newsletter
  • REGISTER
  • MSPs
  • VARs / SIs
  • Agents
  • Cloud Service Providers
  • Channel Partners Events
 Channel Futures

SDN/SD-WAN


MPLS: The Go-To Cloud Connection

  • Written by Channel
  • May 20, 2012
Cloud security and quality-of-service challenges may be best met by virtual private networks based on MPLS.

By Joan Engebretson

While cost savings and productivity gains are fueling enterprise demand for cloud, security and quality of service pose challenges challenges that channel partners are finding may be best met by virtual private networks based on MPLS.

For telecom sales agents who traditionally have focused on commodity connectivity services, the advent of cloud services offers an opportunity to move up the value chain. Many communications service providers, including some who rely heavily on agents and other third parties as their sales channel, are developing cloud services and are making those services available through their channel partners. Selling these services and educating customers about connectivity requirements and options to support these services can help agents break out of the rut of selling exclusively or primarily on price. And some service providers have taken steps to help agents address this market by, for example, establishing recommendations for class-of-service parameters based on the applications an enterprise is using.

Similarly, VARs and systems integrators also are advising enterprise customers on their public and private cloud computing deployments and in that role they are well positioned to explain the benefits of MPLS as a method of connecting enterprise locations to the cloud.

Some of the most sophisticated VARs are developing their own cloud services and connecting their data centers to the carrier MPLS networks. This can be a substantial benefit for customers who use the carrier’s  MPLS service because the process of adding the cloud service provider to the enterprise VPN is simplified, requiring only a soft turn-up, rather than new infrastructures to be put in place. And connection to the MPLS network enables the cloud service provider to support secure communications with end-to-end class of service a capability that can enhance the value of real-time or mission-critical cloud services such as communications-as-a-service and security-as-a-service. In some cases, MPLS connectivity may be bundled as part of cloud-based CaaS, security or other offerings.

Evaluating Cloud Connections. Multilocation enterprise networks have been transitioning away from a hub-and-spoke approach to any-to-any connections. The advent of cloud services should further fuel the trend as enterprises now will need to establish connectivity not only between multiple enterprise locations but also to the data center and potentially multiple cloud providers.

Two major types of Layer 2 and three types of Layer 3 connections are commonly used to support multisite connectivity for cloud applications. The Layer 2 options include virtual private networks based on E-LANs (which may be based on VPLS or other connection types) and frame relay/ATM. The Layer 3 options include basic Internet access or virtual private networks based on IPSec and MPLS IP VPNs.

The easiest option for enterprises to implement is to simply connect to cloud services using existing Internet access links. From the enterprises point of view, this approach minimizes the effort and investment required to connect to cloud services. The only investment may be to upgrade the capacity of that link to support the increased traffic level.

There are two major disadvantages of this approach, however:

  • One is that basic Internet access does not offer the level of security that any of the Layer 2 or Layer 3 virtual private network options provides. The added security of a VPN may be a critical requirement for any service that involves the transportation of mission-critical enterprise data, including storage services and other infrastructure-as-a-service offerings; or for certain software-as-a-service offerings such as credit card processing, customer relationship management, or human resources.
  • The second major drawback of basic Internet access is that it supports only best effort service, while all of the other options can support multiple classes of service. The ability to prioritize certain types of communications can be critical for certain types of cloud applications such as video conferencing, unified communications and hosted VoIP services. Higher-priority classes of service also may be important for certain mission-critical applications such as credit card processing.

And although VPNs are particularly well suited to certain types of cloud computing and cloud services, they can also be positioned as a means of connecting any type of cloud application. A case can be made that only with a VPN can a customer retain the same level of security and performance from cloud applications that users are accustomed to experiencing from premises-based applications.

The question then becomes how to position MPLS vis-à-vis other VPN options.

 

As the table shows, IPSec is best suited to enterprises that require encrypted communications for added security. But as we have seen, the other VPN options including E-LAN, frame relay/ATM and MPLS IP-VPNs use network tunnels to isolate an individual enterprises communications from those of other customers, offering ample security for most customers. In addition, all three VPN options can support multiple classes of service.

The issue then becomes whether the customer wants Layer 2 or Layer 3 connectivity.

On the Layer 2 side, the frame relay/ATM option is declining in popularity, in large part because configuring interconnections between individual locations is more cumbersome than with the other VPN options. But although frame relay and ATM are not typically chosen for new deployments, customers whose existing networks are based on those communication types may opt to continue to use these familiar communications technologies to support their ventures into cloud computing.

For those customers with little or no existing investment in frame relay or ATM, the decision whether to use a Layer 3 VPN based on MPLS or a Layer 2 VPN based on MPLS/VPLS or another technology typically depends on the level of control that the customer wants to have. As we have noted, enterprises with extensive IT resources may prefer a Layer 2 approach, while those lacking IT resources are more likely to prefer a Layer 3 approach. Here, too, customers with a significant investment in one approach or the other will tend to continue with that approach.

If a customers existing network is not a consideration, however, a case could be made that MPLS IP VPNs are the connectivity option best suited to support cloud applications. While all of the VPN options including E-LAN, frame relay/ATM, IPSec VPNs and MPLS IP VPNs support security and class of service, MPLS IP VPNs are the easiest to implement from the customer point of view (see table).

Thats an advantage that may resonate particularly well with enterprises adopting public cloud services as those services, like MPLS IP VPNs, aim to minimize the enterprises own resource requirements and enable the enterprises IT resources to be devoted more toward strategic initiatives.

Another factor that could tilt a customer toward the use of MPLS-based VPNs is that some cloud providers already are connecting to carrier MPLS networks with the goal of simplifying the process of connecting enterprises to the cloud services. When this approach is taken, it is a simple process for the customer to connect to the cloud provider, whose data center essentially becomes another node on the service providers MPLS network.

Further more, MPLS service can be supported over a comparatively low-speed DSL connection, making it suitable even for businesses in suburban strip malls or other areas that lack higher-speed options. One option that may be particularly appealing to this market is MPLS over a DSL connection in combination with two analog voice lines, with the MPLS link being used to support cloud applications such as credit card processing.

Channel partners may find it easier to sell cloud security services to business customers by explaining how that option can reduce the customers overall connectivity costs. When the managed firewall option is chosen, all customer traffic to and from the Internet goes through the service providers point of presence, where security services are applied. This is the same point of presence where the service providers MPLS routers are located and to which the customer must connect to obtain MPLS connectivity to support the virtual private network interconnecting enterprise locations.

Accordingly, the customer can use a single physical connection from each location to reach both the Internet and the enterprise VPN by using separate virtual connections carried over the same physical link. Although the total bandwidth required would be the same as if the customer bought two separate services, with one going to the MPLS providers POP and the other to the Internet provider, the cost of a single higher-bandwidth connection is typically lower than the cost of two separate lower-bandwidth connections.

Cloud services offer new ways of overcoming one of the biggest objections channel partners encounter when selling communications services: the customers multiyear contract with another service provider. One option is to sell MPLS as a means of backing up the customers existing connection and handling overflow traffic, using the class of service capability of MPLS to prioritize traffic on the backup link.

Because MPLS is so versatile, it is well suited to supporting a wide range of applications. This means that once business customers have made the decision to use MPLS, it can serve as a platform for other new services including services such as video or SIP trunking that require class of service, as well as a growing range of cloud services. This in turn, should help drive future bandwidth upgrades and help cement the channel partners relationship with the client.

Joan Engebretson is a freelance writer who has been covering the telecommunications industry since 1992. She is a former editor for America’s Network and Telephony magazines.

Tags: Agents Business Models Cloud SDN/SD-WAN Telephony/UC/Collaboration

Most Recent


  • Must See
    IBM, F5, Appgate, Axonius, CyberGRX Among 'Must-See' Vendors at RSA
    EMA said these vendors provide products and solutions that are some of the best in the industry.
  • Business building block growth
    So You Want to Build a Microsoft Practice? Here's What It Will Take
    “It's a labor of love, and it didn't happen overnight," Jim Campbell of Opkalla said.
  • Compliance Issues
    ConnectWise Enhances Innovation, Partner Experience with Additions to Leadership Team
    Todd Hale becomes ConnectWise CIO and Ciaran Chu will lead the innovation business unit as general manager, ConnectWise Control.
  • CEO's chair and desk, plus nameplate
    McAfee Names Intuit Vet New President and CEO
    This is part of McAfee's transition to a pure-play consumer protection company.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

-or-

Log in with your Channel Futures account

Alternatively, post a comment by completing the form below:

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Content

  • zero trust security
    Leveraging Partner Expertise to Build a Zero-Trust Strategy
  • Twenty, 20
    The CF List: 20 Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Providers You Should Know
  • Security shield on digital background
    VMware Security Connect Focused on Redefining Security, Increasing Threats
  • Fortune 500 2021 logo
    AT&T, Microsoft, Verizon, More Tech, Telco Companies Make Latest Fortune 500

Upcoming Events

View all

Channel Partners Europe

June 14, 2022 - June 15, 2022

MSP Summit

September 13, 2022 - September 16, 2022

Galleries

View all

IBM, F5, Appgate, Axonius, CyberGRX Among ‘Must-See’ Vendors at RSA

May 25, 2022

So You Want to Build a Microsoft Practice? Here’s What It Will Take

May 25, 2022

Cisco Hybrid Cloud Trends Report Indicates Important Uptake

May 25, 2022

Industry Perspectives

View all

Increased Cybersecurity Vulnerability = Increased MSP Opportunities

May 25, 2022

Leverage Your MSP’s People Power

May 24, 2022

How SD-WAN Helps Secure the Expanding Network Perimeter

May 19, 2022

Webinars

View all

Simplifying SaaS Security for MSPs

April 27, 2022

How to Supercharge The Network to Support Your IT Superhero Moves

May 3, 2022

The 2022 MSP Challenge: Scale Service Delivery Despite the Talent Gap

April 21, 2022

White Papers

View all

Work Goes Remote – (and Other Top ITOps Trends)

May 25, 2022

The New Bottom Line: How MSPs Can Meet the Healthcare Crisis While Evolving Their Businesses

April 19, 2022

How to build a Security Operations Center (on a budget)

April 4, 2022

Channel Futures TV

View all

AT&T, Microsoft, Cisco, ThreatLocker on Unlocking Partner Potential

Agents Share ‘Secrets,’ Industry Opportunity

May 11, 2022

Vonage Addresses Potential Partner Opportunity via Acquisition by Ericsson

May 5, 2022

Lumen Technologies ‘Built for Growth and Scale’

May 4, 2022

Twitter

ChannelFutures

Are your #MSP clients struggling to handle their cybersecurity vulnerability? #cybersecurity #cyberthreats… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

Introducing the 2022 Channel Futures MSP 501: The best of the best. Register for the reveal webinar here.… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

.@Tanium launches new Technology Partner Program. #endpointdata dlvr.it/SR3pvw https://t.co/5DL6gvTAhX

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

EMA's picks for must-see vendors at next month's @RSAConference: @AppGateSecurity, @AxoniusInc, @coalfire,… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

Jim Campbell of @opkalla shared how the consultancy built a Microsoft gold partner CSP business in 18 months.… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

.@Nable's new N-hanced Services empower partners to leverage N-able’s full breadth of experience and expertise, the… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

Work Goes Remote – (and Other Top ITOps Trends) dlvr.it/SR3d06

May 25, 2022
ChannelFutures

.@ConnectWise adds two executives to its leadership team: Todd Hale as CIO and Ciaran Chu as GM of ConnectWise Cont… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…

May 25, 2022

MSSP Insider

Business advice for MSSPs and news from the broader security channel.

Newsletters and Updates

Sign up for The Channel Report, Channel Futures Update, MSP 501 Newsletter and more.

Live Channel Events

Get the latest information on the next industry-leading Channel Partners event.

Galleries

Educational slide shows and images from live events.

Media Kit And Advertising

Want to reach our audience? Access our media kit.

DISCOVER MORE FROM INFORMA TECH

  • Channel Partners Events
  • Telecoms.com
  • MSP 501
  • Black Hat
  • IoT World Today
  • Omdia

WORKING WITH US

  • Contact
  • About Us
  • Advertise
  • Newsletter

FOLLOW Channel Futures ON SOCIAL

  • Privacy
  • CCPA: “Do Not Sell My Data”
  • Cookie Policy
  • Terms
Copyright © 2022 Informa PLC. Informa PLC is registered in England and Wales with company number 8860726 whose registered and Head office is 5 Howick Place, London, SW1P 1WG.
This website uses cookies, including third party ones, to allow for analysis of how people use our website in order to improve your experience and our services. By continuing to use our website, you agree to the use of such cookies. Click here for more information on our Cookie Policy and Privacy Policy.
X