What Is Layer 3 VPN (L3VPN)?

Layer 3 VPNs are the new hotness. It's a waste if you're not taking advantage of them. Don't worry if this is your first time hearing of them. They're new and still confusing to some people. They have some significant benefits: they're scalable, flexible, and can handle large amounts of traffic relatively cheaply. A layer 3 VPN (L3VPN) is a mode built on OSI layer three networking technologies. Layer 3 VPNs are created and delivered using layer three virtual routing and forwarding techniques. Layer 3 VPNs are virtual private routed networks (VPRNs). The communication is forwarded from the VPN infrastructure core using layer 3 virtual routing and forwarding techniques. A Layer 3 VPN allows enterprises to provide employees access to private corporate resources while working remotely or traveling outside the office. With a layer 3 VPN, an enterprise can connect multiple locations over an IP network, such as the Internet, to create one network across multiple sites, simultaneously providing users access to resources anywhere within this virtual network space. L3VPN and BGP are old friends. They've been together since the early days of the Internet when they were beginning to get to know each other. Then BGP became slightly clingy, and L3VPN decided it needed some space. So they broke things off but not for good! After all, they still have some great memories together. The Internet is a large and complex thing. It's also a mess, or at least it used to be. The Internet has been around for a long time, and as with all things, it's gone through some changes over the years. In the early days of the Internet, there were only two choices: IP or MPLS. Then, in 2015, something changed everything: The world got its first taste of IP/MPLS Hybrid VPNs. IP/MPLS Hybrid VPNs are built using a combination of IP- and MPLS-based networking technologies. They're so new and innovative that they're generally used to send data on back-end VPN infrastructures (like connecting data centers or back offices). The best part? They're also really good at getting things done quickly. This type of network is becoming so prevalent in today's fast-paced business environment!