IP VPN
Multinationals usually have two choices for their communication needs-the creation of a private network using leased lines, or the use of the broader public Internet. The first option is highly secure but costly, while the second offers inexpensive access, but brings with it potential problems with security. IP VPNs (IP-enabled Virtual Private Networks) offer the advantages of both options-multinationals can enjoy the security of a private network using access control and encryption, while taking advantage of the economies of scale and management capabilities of large public networks. IP VPNs are run over our global IP network for fully meshed, any-to-any connectivity between multiple locations for a lower cost of ownership than a private network.
We were one of the first global communication services providers to offer a worldwide IP VPN service, based on our privately owned network, and are continuing our leadership by offering the first inter-provider implementation of IP-capable Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS).
IP MPLS enables a global class of service (CoS) data service across multiple IP VPN backbones, to extend the reach and service capabilities for multinational enterprises-without purchasing additional customer premises equipment (CPE). The basic premise is this: each router in the backbone must be MPLS enabled; MPLS adds a label (a tag) at the edge of the network to each packet, so that they are switched, not routed. This label contains a VPN identifier and a CoS identifier, and allows for all packets to follow the same path and receive the same treatment.
In addition to MPLS, IP VPNs always provide leading-edge security features such as encryption using IPSec standards, and PKI digital certificates for authentication.
Depending on the performance needs and security requirements of your business applications, many different solutions can be developed to create a private network between your enterprise and your business partners. For example:
- An ATM or Frame Relay VPN provides end-to-end performance guarantees with built-in security over The World Network®. This solution is considered a "VPN." Though it can be used for IP applications, in general, it is not referred to as an IP VPN
- Private Internet is an IP VPN, based on the Private IP network that offers flexibility and scalability, together with the performance and privacy required for mission-critical applications
- IP VPN Secure brings MPLS based IP VPN's and multiple classes of service to the Private IP network. This application aware network provides the flexibility to support data and voice and allows for the intelligent use of bandwidth to bring the optimum mix of performance and ROI to IP VPN networks
- IVPN is an IP VPN, based on the Internet network and combines the reach and high performance of the Tier 1 backbone with encryption technologies
- MobileXpress services are used for IP VPNs for travelling users or for small offices that need only a dial-up connection to the network
We can help you to select the service or combination of services as a solution to best execute your business initiatives. All services are available on our points of presence (POP) in all countries, and we offer the flexibility to use several services in parallel and to move easily from one service to another at individual sites.