3COM 3C17548

The 3Com Switch 8800 VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) Module, integrated within the Switch 8800 system, provides support for high-speed Layer 2 VPNs in an MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) environment. This VPLS module is an IETF draft standard that addresses the problem of networking multiple sites with full mesh "any-to-any" MPLS connectivity at Layer 2. When combined with Ethernet, VPLS transforms the MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) into a large Ethernet switch, and is much simpler to set-up, maintain, and operate compared to the more complex and traditional MPLS-based IP-VPN.

Designed for the needs of medium-sized enterprises, the module has its own operating system, allowing the VPN processes to be separated from the switch processing. By embedding this process within the module, the need for additional appliances or devices is reduced, eliminating redundant management of multiple devices and lowering capital expenditures and reducing operating costs.