Virtual private LAN switching, the ability to emulate an Ethernet LAN across a network infrastructure, is not new to the industry. The first version of this came about with ATM LAN Emulation and MPOA. However, there were several scalability and implementation issues. Now, with the ability to transport Ethernet across MPLS networks, virtual private LAN switching, is breathing a new life, only this time around people are more cautious.

This presentation describes the architecture of VPLS and HVPLS as discussed in the IETF. It examines the scalability aspects of this architecture and explains the applicability. It also lists some of the concerns associated with designing VPLS networks so that network designers can be prepared and know what to expect.

Azhar Sayeed has more than nine years of networking and communications industry experience. As Manager, Product Line Management with the Internet Technologies Division, Cisco Systems, Mr. Sayeed is responsible for product management and rollout of Quality of Service (QoS) and Multi Protocol Label Switching (MPLS) features in Cisco IOSŪ software. Cisco IOSŪ software is the network system software that powers the majority of Cisco's hardware platforms.

Prior to joining Cisco in 1998, Mr. Sayeed worked for Cabletron Systems as senior product manager, GIGA switch/ATM group. There he designed, implemented and troubleshot product development strategies. He has held additional industry positions including his role as an ATM aviator with Digital Equipment Corporation where he supported pre-sales operations of the High Performance Networks group.

He is also an award winning distinguished speaker who has participated in major conferences such as ATM Year, Integrated Broadband Networks, IT COMDEX, India, CAMP Expo 2000, Networld+Interop 2001, MPLS Congress 2002, MPLScon Spring 2002, and Next Generation Networks 2002.

Mr. Sayeed holds a bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication from Osmania University, India, and a master's in Electrical Engineering from King Fahd University, Saudi Arabia.