How can you choose the right MPLS certification for your career?

I’d like to contribute about the reason of MPLS is important. When analyzing the traditional packet routing model, by default, when incoming packet enters an interface, only the Destination-Address is analyzed and then, the router performs a routing-lookup to determine the correct output intf. Regardless of the number of paths, the router will choose only one, which one with the lowest cost. However, if all packets from source X always take the same path to destination Y, what will happen to the least used routes? What happens when all routers are using the same lowest-cost route? What happens to the underused paths? The protocol MPLS is fundamentally to answer properly those questions, and this is the reason why MPLS is important IMHO.

MPLS means Multi-Protocol Label Switching, is a networking technology that routes traffic based on the shortest path based on “labels,” rather than network Ip addresses to handle forwarding over private WANs. Advantages of MPLS Networks: Obscures Network Complexity. Easier Global Changes. Reduced Network Congestion. Increased Uptime. Improved Network Utilisation. Consistent Network Performance. Scalable IP VPNs.

We Need MPLS for many causes: Scalability of network layer routing, Greater flexibility in delivering routing services, Increased performance and Simplify integration of routers with cell switched based technologies

Definately the 2 top most used Networking gear vendors are Cisco and Juniper. To be the best at MPLS Architecture designing, configuration and Support then you must either go for the Cisco Service Provider or Juniper Service Provider Tracks. These are done systematically where you start from a low level from CCNA<>CCNP<>CCIE for Cisco and JNCIA<>JNCIS<>JNCIP<>JNCIE for Juniper. MPLS will be with us for a very longtime to come since its the most sort after technology for forwarding packets at the Service Provider Level. Almost all Service Provider in the world have some form of MPLS configurations in their Core Network where labels are used to forward and switch packet fast, secure and the scalability is immense.

I’d like to contribute about the reason of MPLS is important. Identify your career objectives and determine how MPLS fits into your career path. Are you looking to specialize in networking, become a network engineer, or focus on a specific area within IT? Research Certification Levels: MPLS certifications come at different levels, such as entry-level, associate, professional, and expert. Assess your current skill level and work experience to find a certification that aligns with your proficiency.

I would like to contribute on the subject, highlighting that a certification that encompasses MPLS shows that the network engineer is in compliance with one of the highest levels of expertise in communications. When we talk about MPLS, we talk about new possibilities, new projects and new services , where mastering this subject undoubtedly opens many doors for those who want to work at a high level and perform in the area...

The main benefit to getting MPLS certified is ensuring that your forwarding classes are truly equivalent. Without the certification, it's easy to end up with nonequivalent forwarding classes - which is deeply uncool.

I don’t recommend getting a certification in this technology. This technology is quickly being outmoded. Seek something more modern to certify in.

MPLS, or Multiprotocol Label Switching, is a vital network protocol known for swift and efficient data routing. It optimizes traffic, supports QoS, and excels in secure VPN creation. Widely adopted by service providers, MPLS's flexibility, scalability, and traffic isolation enhance network performance and cost efficiency

Multi-Protocol Label Switching or MPLS is a technique used to route and direct traffic in communication technology that uses labels in place of addresses to handle data flow from one router to the other. Ideally, these addresses identify endpoints for each data packet. However, labels do not focus on the destination but instead on routes and pathways that have already been established. MPLS is a networking technology that directs traffic consisting of data packets along networking routes but through the shortest path described on the labels.

I think if we were to separate the knowledge levels in MPLS, we would have the following order: 1 - (Beginner) Theoretical knowledge, functioning, how labels behave, what are LSPs, FECs, LFIB, NHLFE, ILM, PUSH/SWAP/POP processes, what are P/PEs/CEs and so on. . 2 - (Intermediary) L2VPN & L3VPN services, use of Static-LSPs, LDP, RSVP-TE, IGPs (OSPF/IS-IS) and so on, put it to work with new services and resources. 3 - (Advanced) How to use BGP with MPLS, Free-Core, 6PE/VPE, Traffic Engineering, SR-MPLS, SRv6 and so on..

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) - Enterprise 2. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) - Enterprise Infrastructure 3. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP-SP) 4. Nokia Service Routing Architect (SRA) 5. Huawei Certified ICT Professional - Service Routing 6. CompTIA Network+ Certification

Thinking about an exclusive MPLS certification track, the beginner level must be required to have good knowledge, for example, of IGP and EGP routing protocols, PHB, service provider equipment hardware, and operating context with labels. Intermediate level can address topics such as label operation within the MPLS mesh. Protocols such as LDP, RSVP-TE, and VPNs over MPLS network. Having some labs to prove understanding. Expert Level should cover topics such as BGP-LU, BGP FREE-CORE, and CsC. For laboratories, a certain scenario must be given and the candidate must use their preferred manufacturer to prove the required knowledge.

If you're learning MPLS technologies and want to test it and validate it with a Service Provider Exam (CCNP, JNCIP, etc.) then labing routers to make MPLS networks in a Network Emulator like GNS3 (there are other options) would be the best way to test this out and ensure you've got a good level of understanding and knowledge prior to taking a certification exam.

The most robust vendors on the market have a service provider certification track, which masterfully delivers the knowledge necessary to achieve an understanding of what MPLS actually is. From routing protocols (basic for operation and largely neglected during learning) to knowledge of more current protocols such as Segment Routing. I cite the CISCO Service Provider and JUNIPER Service Provider certification tracks as examples. Books are also welcome covering exclusive subjects such as IS-IS, OSPF, MPLS, LDP, and RSVP. EVE-NG can assist in practice with the establishment of scenarios and situations, leaving it up to the practitioner which vendor(s) to use.

At this point, MPLS is nearly a legacy technology. I would recommend exploring how SDWAN + DIA, or other overlay technologies like those from ZScaler could help you or your company achieve what MPLS does for you today.

IMHO, there's no 'right MPLS certification'. There're many aspects you should evaluate before choose a certification. Besides liking of Service Provider environments, you should make yourself questions about: What's the main vendor used by the company I work for? How do other companies adhere to this vendor? Does the current vendor support new features and services to our business? How is your current vendor's documentation, training, and support? Does your current company want to replace the current vendor in the next few months? These questions will help you choose a good (not right) certification track. Remember: The exam CORE covers the fundamentals of MPLS (how it works, methods, good practices etc.) and this is "White-Label". :D

Research the different types of MPLS certifications: There are various types of MPLS certifications available, such as Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP), and MPLS Forum Certified Network Engineer (MPLS-CN). Consider the cost: The cost of an MPLS certification can vary depending on the certification type and training option. Determine your budget and evaluate the cost of each certification and training option. Prepare for the exam: Once you have chosen a certification, prepare for the exam by studying the exam objectives, taking practice exams, and participating in study groups.

I’d choose CCNP for understanding of on-premise MPLS Then go for MPLS in Cloud networking via AWS, Azure and Aviatrix Networking certifications

Everything that has been argued here is just a guideline, how to build a house, having a solid (Beginner) base makes the journey more peaceful, but because it is MPLS, everything we see in it is different from the conventional, so we always be open-minded when talking about this topic.

Choosing the right MPLS certification for your career involves understanding MPLS, a technique for speeding up network connections, and the benefits of obtaining an MPLS certification, such as increased job opportunities and improved career prospects. There are several MPLS certifications available, such as the Implementing Cisco MPLS (MPLS) 3.0, and preparation for an MPLS certification exam can be done through instructor-led training, self-paced learning, and practical exams. The choice of the right MPLS certification for your career depends on your personal, professional, and financial goals, and other factors to consider include the reputation of the certification provider, the resources available for exam preparation, and opportunities

Choosing the right MPLS certification for your career involves considering several factors, such as your current level of expertise, career goals and interests, preferred vendor or platform, budget and time availability, and employer or client requirements.

Start preparing for CCIE service provider certification.Cisco CCIE Service Provider Certification is an Expert level Certification by Cisco for Service Provider network engineers. CCIE Service Provider Certification validates expert level knowledge and skills to build an extensible Service Provider infrastructure.You will get depth MPLS knowledge.

Go for CCIE service provider certificate.Achieving CCIE Service Provider certification proves your skills with complex service provider solutions. To earn CCIE Service Provider certification, you pass two exams: a qualifying exam that covers core service provider technologies, and a hands-on lab exam that covers service provider technologies through the entire network lifecycle, from designing and deploying to operating and optimizing.