MPLS and VPN Architectures : CCIP Edition

Prepare for CCIP certification as you learn to design and deploy MPLS-based VPNs

• Assists in preparation for the CCIP MPLS elective exam with detailed technology coverage and review questions
• Offers in-depth analysis of MPLS architecture
• Helps you learn how MPLS scales to support tens of thousands of virtual private networks (VPNs)
• Provides extensive case studies that guide you through the design and deployment of real-world MPLS/VPN networks
• Presents configuration examples and guidelines that assist you in configuring MPLS on Cisco devices
• Provides design and implementation options that help you build various VPN topologies

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) is an innovative technique for high-performance packet forwarding. The most widely deployed usage of MPLS today is the enabling of VPNs. With the introduction of MPLS-enabled VPNs, network designers can better scale their networks than ever before.

MPLS and VPN Architectures, CCIP Edition, is a practical guide to understanding, designing, and deploying MPLS-based VPNs. This book covers MPLS theory and configuration, network design issues, and one major MPLS application: MPLS-based VPNs. The MPLS/VPN architecture and all its mechanisms are explained with configuration examples, suggested design and deployment guidelines, and extensive case studies.

This book has been revised from the first edition to include coverage of the CCIP MPLS elective exam. New chapters cover MPLS troubleshooting and MPLS/VPN troubleshooting; self-assessment questions at the end of each chapter help you prepare for the CCIP MPLS elective exam. CCIP candidates choosing to follow the MPLS elective will find this book to be a valuable self-study component in their exam preparation.

MPLS and VPN Architectures, CCIP Edition, is part of a recommended learning path from Cisco Systems that can include simulation and hands-on training from authorized Cisco Learning Partners and self-study products from Cisco Press. To find out more about instructor-led training, e-learning, and hands-on instruction offered by authorized Cisco Learning Partners worldwide, please visit

Ivan Pepelnjak, CCIE(r) No. 1354, is the chief technology adviser of NIL Data Communications, a Cisco gold partner, training partner, and professional services provider. Ivan has more than 10 years of experience in designing, installing, troubleshooting, and operating large service provider and enterprise WAN and LAN networks, many of them based on EIGRP routing protocol.

Jim Guichard, CCIE No. 2069, is a network design consultant at Cisco Systems who has extensive experience with designing, migrating, and deploying large-scale IP networks. He has worked closely with Cisco development and has extensively researched and tested MPLS/VPN functionality, both within the lab environment and within multiple customer deployments throughout Europe.