Yes, with MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) you can implement VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) on MikroTik devices. VPLS is a technology that allows networks to extend a LAN segment across a geographically distributed network infrastructure, using MPLS to encapsulate Ethernet data over the MPLS network.

Next, we explain how this implementation is carried out in MikroTik:

Prerequisites to implement VPLS in MikroTik

1. Compatible Hardware: You need to make sure your MikroTik hardware supports MPLS and VPLS. Not all models have this capability, especially lower-end devices.
2. RouterOS: It is essential to have a version of RouterOS that supports MPLS and VPLS. Typically, you need a level 4 license or higher to access these advanced features.
3. MPLS Configuration: Before you can deploy VPLS, MPLS must be enabled and properly configured on your network. This includes configuring LDP (Label Distribution Protocol) which is necessary for the distribution of MPLS labels between routers.

VPLS configuration in MikroTik

1. Configure MPLS interfaces:
   • Enable MPLS on the interfaces that will interconnect the MikroTik devices on the network.
   • Configure and secure LDP on these interfaces to enable label exchange.
2. Create a VPLS Interface:
   • In MikroTik, you must create a VPLS interface for each site you want to connect within your VPLS network.
   • This is done in the RouterOS “Interfaces” menu, selecting the option to add a new VPLS interface.
   • You will need to configure the “Customer Edge” (CE) VPLS ID, which is a unique identifier for the VPLS segment.
3. Set BGP or LDP for label transport:
   • You can use BGP or LDP to handle label transport on the MPLS network. This depends on your network configuration and routing preferences.
   • Configure BGP/LDP sessions with all participating routers.
4. Connect clients to the VPLS network:
   • With the VPLS interface configured, you can connect client devices to this interface as if it were a regular switch.
   • All devices connected to the same VPLS interface will behave as if they were on the same physical LAN.

Benefits of using VPLS in MikroTik

• Network transparency: VPLS allows the interconnection of multiple LANs, maintaining network transparency for layer 2 protocols.
• Scalability: You can extend the LAN network over an MPLS infrastructure regardless of the geographical distance between sites.
• Flexibility: Allows the addition or removal of sites without significantly affecting the core network configuration.

Implementing VPLS in MikroTik using MPLS is a powerful solution for networks that need to extend LANs across wide geographic areas, while maintaining a high level of performance and network management.