Summary

This chapter assessed the need for a solid routing foundation and the implications to the enterprise when using an MPLS VPN-based service. If you create a consistent routing foundation with the appropriate mechanisms, the enterprise can easily scale to very large MPLS VPN implementations.

Consideration for support of existing IGP routing protocols, and their growing support by the MPLS VPN providers, is easing the transition and lessening the need to maintain multiple routing protocols. With the Layer 3 VPN, it is possible to integrate the IGP and thus gain transparency between the service provider and the enterprise.

Convergence times of MPLS VPN networks are constantly improving, as are the connectivity options that ensure that the platform can support the aspects of converged voice, video, and data. Because these business services require high SLAs, especially voice, it is especially important that you be careful when designing the routing for the enterprise. It is the key foundation on which all else relies.