Seeking Advice: L2TPv3 vs. Martini Draft MPLS

Fri Apr 4 16:13:19 UTC 2003

All,

I'm currently comparing these two technologies in an effort to offer a
Layer 2 VPN service on our backbone.  Our network is currently not MPLS
enabled. Below is what I perceive as the pros and cons of each
technology.  If anyone has thoughts on or experience with either one of
these protocols I'd like to hear your opinion. 

Thanks

Mike

Martini VPN

Pro
----
Supports MPLS TE for each VPN, making it more PVCish
Enabling MPLS would open up the "MPLS tool box" for other services like
L3 VPNs and TE

Con
---
Enabling MPLS is a huge change
Changing the forwarding paradigm in the network exposes us to new and
interesting bugs and stability issues

L2TPv3 VPN

Pro
---
Doesn't require MPLS/Much smaller change  

Con
----
Although standard, only supported by Cisco currently (I think)
Requires special tunneling card in GSR routers.  