Label Switching
Definition
Label switching is a forwarding method in which packets are moved through the network using label state rather than only destination-address lookup.
Key Points
- Improves forwarding efficiency in controlled transport domains.
- Commonly implemented inside MPLS and related label-based forwarding systems.
- Supports explicit path control and traffic engineering.
- Keeps forwarding decisions simpler than full route lookups in every hop.
Concept
The label acts as a compact forwarding key that maps traffic to pre-established paths or forwarding behaviors.
Explainer
Label switching is a forwarding model, not a routing protocol. In practice it is usually associated with MPLS and similar transport domains.
Cite this entry
Label Switching. ConnectedEarth Knowledge Base. https://connectedearth.space/knowledge-base/label-switching/ (updated 13 September 2026).