DAY 1 - MPLS BASIC

Welcome to our first session on MPLS Basics! In this video, we dive into the fundamentals of Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), an essential technology for efficient network traffic management.


  • Introduction and Course Outline:
    • Topics to be covered include IPv6, VPNs, MPLS, Quality of Service (QoS), Multicast, Device Management, Wireless LAN Control, AAA, URF, COP, etc.
    • Emphasis on starting with MPLS before moving to other topics.


  • Basics of MPLS:
    • Definition and purpose of MPLS: A technology designed to speed up network traffic flow and make ISPs' core networks BGP-free.
    • Explanation of the difference between unicast and multicast routing.
    • MPLS labels operate between Layer 2 and Layer 3 of the OSI model, hence called a Layer 2.5 technology.


  • Router Types in MPLS:
    • Provider Edge (PE) Router, Customer Edge (CE) Router, and Provider (P) Router.
    • Functions of these routers and their roles in MPLS networks.


  • Routing Tables and VRF (Virtual Routing and Forwarding):
    • VRF allows for the creation of multiple routing tables within a single router to save IP addresses and isolate customer networks.
    • Concepts of Route Distinguisher (RD) and Route Target (RT) to keep routes globally unique.


  • MPLS Label Switching:
    • The process of label pushing, swapping, and popping in MPLS.
    • Ingress and egress label switch routers (LSRs), and the concept of penultimate hop popping (PHP).


  • Practical Example and Configuration:
    • Example network scenario demonstrating MPLS configuration and routing.
    • Use of OSPF or ISIS protocols for the internal core network.


  • Historical Context and Evolution:
    • MPLS evolved from tag switching in the 1990s, which aimed to reduce the routing burden on core ISPs.
    • Mention of MPLS-related developments and contributions by Cisco.


  • Interactive Q&A:
    • Participants engage with the instructor, asking questions about MPLS and related concepts.
    • Discussion on overlapping IPs, VRFs, and the scalability of routing protocols like BGP and OSPF.


  • Course Resources and Further Reading:
    • References to PPT slides and additional documents provided for deeper understanding and further study.


The session emphasizes practical understanding and command over MPLS, preparing participants for real-world application and certification exams.

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