page_title: MPLS VPN
section_title: Layer 3 VPN (VPRN)
hierarchical_section_title: MPLS VPN / Layer 3 VPN (VPRN)
context_page_description: MPLS VPN is a family of methods for using multiprotocol label switching to create virtual private networks. MPLS VPN is a flexible method to transport and route several types of network traffic using an MPLS backbone.
  There are three types of MPLS VPNs deployed in networks today:
  1. Point-to-point
  2. Layer 2
  3. Layer 3
context_section_description: Layer 3, or VPRN (virtual private routed network), utilizes layer 3 VRF (VPN/virtual routing and forwarding) to segment routing tables for each customer utilizing the service. The customer peers with the service provider router and the two exchange routes, which are placed into a routing table specific to the customer. Multiprotocol BGP (MP-BGP) is required in the cloud to utilize the service, which increases complexity of design and implementation. L3 VPNs are typically not deployed on utility networks due to their complexity; however, a L3 VPN could be used to route traffic between corporate or datacenter locations.
caption: Logical View of a Layer 3 MPLS VPN.