Multi Protocol Label Switching

Overview
Multi Protocol Label Switching (also spelled Multiprotocol Load Switching) (MPLS) is

"an IETF initiative that integrates Layer 2 information about network links (bandwidth, latency, utilization) into Layer 3 (IP) within a particular autonomous system &mdash; or ISP &mdash; in order to simplify and improve IP-packet exchange. MPLS gives network operators a great deal of flexibility to divert and route traffic around link failures, congestion, and bottlenecks."