Layer 2 VPN

What Does Layer 2 VPN Mean?

Layer 2 VPN is a type of VPN mode that is built and delivered on OSI layer 2 networking technologies.

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The entire communication from the core VPN infrastructure is forwarded in a layer 2 format on a layer 3/IP network and is converted back to layer 2 mode at the receiving end.

Techopedia Explains Layer 2 VPN

Layer 2 VPN typically utilizes MPLS-based labels to send data to layer 3 or network edge routers from the are transmission site to the destination node. The edge router selects the appropriate path and transmits the data in a layer 3 or IP packet form. If the destination VPN infrastructure utilizes layer 2 technologies, the data is converted back to layer mode. However, if it utilizes layer 3 mode, there is no need for conversion. Layer 2 VPN is typically used by VPN service providers or ISPs that utilize layer 2 networking technologies within their core infrastructure. These technologies include ATM, frame relay and others.

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Margaret Rouse

Margaret Rouse is an award-winning technical writer and teacher known for her ability to explain complex technical subjects to a non-technical, business audience. Over the past twenty years her explanations have appeared on TechTarget websites and she's been cited as an authority in articles by the New York Times, Time Magazine, USA Today, ZDNet, PC Magazine and Discovery Magazine.Margaret's idea of a fun day is helping IT and business professionals learn to speak each other’s highly specialized languages. If you have a suggestion for a new definition or how to improve a technical explanation, please email Margaret or contact her…