Introduction

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) has long been a standard for enterprise networking, offering reliable and high-performance connectivity. However, the rise of Software-Defined Wide Area Networking (SD-WAN) has introduced a new paradigm, enabling greater flexibility, cost efficiency, and cloud-centric networking. This course explores the integration of MPLS and SD-WAN to build modern, hybrid network architectures that optimize performance, security, and scalability.

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of MPLS technology and routing principles.
• Familiarity with SD-WAN concepts and cloud networking.
• Knowledge of network security fundamentals.
• Experience with WAN architecture and connectivity solutions.

Table of Contents

1. Overview of MPLS and SD-WAN Technologies
1.1 Key Concepts of MPLS: Traffic Engineering and QoS
1.2 Introduction to SD-WAN: Benefits and Use Cases
1.3 Comparing MPLS and SD-WAN: Strengths and Limitations

2. Designing Hybrid MPLS and SD-WAN Architectures
2.1 MPLS and SD-WAN Coexistence Models
2.2 Traffic Steering Between MPLS and SD-WAN Links
2.3 Policy-Based Routing and Application-Aware Traffic Management

3. Migration Strategies: Transitioning from MPLS to SD-WAN
3.1 Step-by-Step Migration Planning
3.2 Phased Deployment Approaches
3.3 Challenges and Best Practices for Hybrid Environments

4. Performance Optimization in MPLS and SD-WAN Networks
4.1 WAN Optimization and Dynamic Path Selection
4.2 Application Performance and SLA Management
4.3 Enhancing Network Resilience with Redundancy and Failover

5. Security Considerations in MPLS and SD-WAN Integration
5.1 Security Differences Between MPLS and SD-WAN
5.2 Implementing Zero Trust Security in Hybrid Networks
5.3 Secure Tunneling, Encryption, and Threat Mitigation

6. Cloud Connectivity and Edge Computing
6.1 MPLS and SD-WAN for Multi-Cloud and SaaS Integration
6.2 Direct Cloud Connectivity with SD-WAN
6.3 Edge Computing and 5G Integration in Hybrid Networks

7. Monitoring, Troubleshooting, and SLA Management
7.1 Performance Monitoring Tools for MPLS and SD-WAN
7.2 Troubleshooting Common Network Issues
7.3 Ensuring SLA Compliance and Real-Time Network Analytics

Integrating MPLS and SD-WAN allows enterprises to balance reliability, cost-effectiveness, and agility in their network infrastructure. By understanding best practices for hybrid networking, organizations can optimize performance, enhance security, and ensure seamless cloud connectivity for modern digital operations.