MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is a high-performance network technology used to route and manage data traffic efficiently across wide area networks (WANs). It works by attaching short labels to data packets, which are then used to make forwarding decisions based on predetermined paths, rather than relying on complex routing tables.

This labeling system allows MPLS to direct traffic along specific, optimized paths, improving speed, reducing latency, and enhancing the overall reliability of the network. MPLS is commonly used by enterprises and service providers for managing diverse types of network traffic, ensuring quality of service (QoS), and providing secure, scalable, and predictable network performance.