For years, MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) was the gold standard in enterprise networking. But with today’s distributed workforces, cloud-first strategies, and growing bandwidth demands, SD-WAN vs MPLS is the decision every Ohio IT leader is facing.
Mid-sized and regional organizations across Ohio—from Dayton to Columbus to Cincinnati—are actively evaluating business internet solutions that better support flexibility, speed, and security without breaking the budget.
So what’s the difference between SD-WAN and MPLS, and which makes sense for your organization in 2025?
What Is SD-WAN?
Let’s start with the basics. SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network) is a virtual WAN architecture that allows organizations to securely connect users to applications using any combination of transport services—broadband internet, LTE, or legacy MPLS.
SD-WAN dynamically routes traffic based on real-time conditions, application needs, and security policies, making it ideal for hybrid workforces and cloud-based applications.
Unlike MPLS, which requires fixed routes and carrier-managed circuits, SD-WAN is software-driven and cloud-optimized.
What Is MPLS?
MPLS is a traditional WAN technology that routes traffic via predetermined, private paths. Known for its reliability and low latency, MPLS has historically been favored by companies that require high performance and predictable quality of service—especially for VoIP or video conferencing.
But MPLS is costly and rigid. It doesn’t scale well with cloud apps, and provisioning new circuits can take weeks or even months.
SD-WAN vs MPLS: Key Differences
| Feature | SD-WAN | MPLS |
| Routing | Dynamic, application-aware | Static, fixed routing |
| Cost | Lower, uses public internet | Higher, uses private circuits |
| Scalability | Highly scalable | Limited |
| Cloud Readiness | Optimized for cloud | Not inherently cloud-friendly |
| Redundancy & Failover | Built-in redundancy | Manual and expensive |
| Security | Integrated with modern tools | Requires additional layers |
When comparing SD-WAN vs MPLS, it’s clear that SD-WAN offers more flexibility and cost-efficiency for today’s network demands. However, MPLS still has a place for certain high-security or real-time applications.
Cisco offers a clear overview of SD-WAN vs MPLS for IT teams exploring infrastructure options and hybrid architectures.
To dive deeper into how SD-WAN changes enterprise connectivity, Cloudflare’s guide is a solid primer for understanding performance, scalability, and routing differences.
Does SD-WAN Require MPLS?
A common misconception is that SD-WAN requires MPLS to function. It doesn’t. SD-WAN can operate entirely over broadband or LTE. That said, some businesses use SD-WAN to intelligently route traffic over both MPLS and broadband, easing the transition and optimizing usage.
What Are the Drawbacks of SD-WAN?
While SD-WAN offers many advantages, it’s not without limitations:
- Internet-based connections may not guarantee the same low latency as MPLS
- SD-WAN performance depends on the quality of local internet service
- Requires robust configuration and monitoring to fully realize benefits
That’s why many Ohio organizations work with partners like ATC to manage the complexity. Our IT services and solutions include real-time monitoring and WAN optimization to ensure your SD-WAN deployment performs as promised.
Business Internet Solutions That Scale With You
As companies embrace digital transformation, business internet solutions must evolve too. SD-WAN is a key enabler for scalable, secure, cloud-friendly networking. It supports WAN optimization, application prioritization, and centralized policy enforcement.
ATC’s cloud consulting services help Ohio-based businesses plan and execute network transitions that align with their business goals, not just their IT infrastructure.
Is SD-WAN Right for You?
If your business is:
- Expanding locations or supporting remote teams
- Moving applications to the cloud
- Experiencing high MPLS costs with little flexibility
- Seeking better network visibility and control
… then SD-WAN deserves serious consideration.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Path Forward
When weighing SD-WAN vs MPLS, the decision depends on your company’s goals, technical needs, and budget. MPLS still serves niche use cases well, but for most mid-sized and growing Ohio businesses, SD-WAN delivers the performance, agility, and cost-savings required to stay competitive.
Let’s explore the right mix of WAN optimization and next-gen infrastructure for your network. ATC’s experts guide IT leaders across Ohio to make smarter, faster, more secure transitions.
