SD-WAN vs. MPLS: Which One Makes Sense for a Growing Business?

June 25, 2025

If you're leading IT for a growing business, chances are you're evaluating your network infrastructure. Should you stick with MPLS or shift to SD-WAN? Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision.


Understanding MPLS


MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) has been the backbone of enterprise networks for years. It offers:

  • Reliable Performance: Consistent latency and packet delivery.
  • Quality of Service (QoS): Prioritizes critical applications.
  • Security: Private lines reduce exposure to the public internet.

However, MPLS comes with challenges:

  • Cost: High expenses for bandwidth and maintenance.
  • Inflexibility: Difficult to scale quickly or adapt to new needs.
  • Complexity: Managing multiple carriers and contracts can be cumbersome.


What Is SD-WAN?


SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) is a modern approach that uses software to manage network connections. Benefits include:

  • Cost Savings: Utilizes broadband internet, reducing reliance on expensive MPLS circuits.
  • Flexibility: Easily integrates new sites and cloud services.
  • Centralized Management: Simplifies network monitoring and configuration.
  • Improved Performance: Optimizes traffic routing based on real-time conditions.

Comparing SD-WAN and MPLS


When comparing SD-WAN and MPLS, the differences are clear across several key areas. MPLS has traditionally been a reliable choice but comes with higher costs and limited scalability, making it less ideal for modern, cloud-first businesses. On the other hand, SD-WAN offers a more flexible and cost-effective solution that aligns better with today’s connectivity needs.


Here’s how they stack up:

  • Cost: MPLS is more expensive, while SD-WAN is generally more affordable.
  • Scalability: MPLS offers limited scalability; SD-WAN scales easily with business growth.
  • Deployment Speed: MPLS setups are slower to deploy; SD-WAN can be rolled out quickly.
  • Cloud Integration: MPLS struggles with cloud integration; SD-WAN handles it seamlessly.
  • Management: MPLS is managed in a decentralized way; SD-WAN offers centralized control.
  • Security: MPLS operates on a private network; SD-WAN includes built-in security features.


For businesses embracing remote work and cloud services, SD-WAN is increasingly becoming the go-to choice.

Why Businesses Are Transitioning to SD-WAN


Many organizations are moving to SD-WAN to:

  • Reduce Costs: Lower operational expenses by minimizing MPLS usage.
  • Enhance Agility: Quickly adapt to changing business needs.
  • Improve User Experience: Ensure consistent application performance.
  • Simplify Management: Gain visibility and control over the entire network.

Is SD-WAN Right for You?


Consider SD-WAN if:

  • You're expanding to new locations.
  • Your team relies heavily on cloud applications.
  • You're looking to optimize costs without sacrificing performance.
  • You need a more agile and manageable network infrastructure.

Need Guidance?


Fiber IT Solutions can help assess your current network setup and determine if SD-WAN aligns with your business goals. Our experts will guide you through the transition, ensuring minimal disruption and maximum benefit.



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