Layer 3 Multiprotocol Label Switching Virtual Private Network

Abstract

Layer 3 Multiprotocol Label Switching Virtual Private Networks (L3 MPLS VPNs) is becoming a key technology of Service Providers' Services for corporations who desire to use remote connectivity. It is getting more popularity by customers for its significant advantages over the prior VPN technologies such as Frame relay and ATM. The main purpose of this thesis project was to develop an understanding of L3 MPLS VPNs in theory and practice. It is targeting to explain the technology briefly and demonstrate how it works to prepare a learning material for Data Network Services course given at VAMK, University of Applied Sciences. The practical part of this project took place in the Technobothnia Research Center using Cisco technology. Four Cisco 2801 routers, laboratory computers and Ethernet and serial media links were used to build the network and accomplish connectivity. There are also software tools used such as HyperTerminal to configure the routers and WireShark packet analyzer to examine the communication protocols used for connectivity.