Assessing Bandwidth Options: Frame Relay vs. VPN

Are you looking for bandwidth? That can be a daunting and frustrating task in even the best of situations. There is a lot to consider in order to make the right choice for your needs. Here’s help evaluating Frame Relay vs. VPN. Factors covered include technology, speed, description, application, pros, cons, and cost.

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Technology: Frame Relay

Speed: 56Kbps – 1.544Mbps

Description: A packet-based, high-speed data transmission service used in wide area networks (WANs) to connect multiple locations.

Application – Used to connect multiple locations to one main location or to each other.

Pros: Cheaper alternative to private line connections. Ability to burst when necessary. Widely available.

Cons: Initial equipment cost can be prohibitive.

Costs: Frame Relay’s monthly cost starts at around $100 per location for a stable and reliable system. The price goes up as the speed increases. However…the price of these connections varies greatly depending on the operator, the location of the service, and the application for which the connection is used.

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Technology: VPN

Speed: 56Kbps – 1.544Mbps

Description: VPN is a software-defined network that runs on a shared public network and offers the look, functionality, and utility of a dedicated private network, at an affordable price.

Application: A highly flexible method of communication between locations through a secure tunnel on a large public network. It is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to Frame Relay and Private Line.

Pros: A user can access the network from any Internet connection. VPNs typically cost less and are more flexible and scalable than competing technologies.

Cons: The availability and performance of a company’s WAN is highly dependent on factors outside of its control.

Costs: VPN prices reflect those of dial-up or dedicated Internet access. The cost of VPN tunneling and encryption is nominal. Expect to spend about $100 at least for a stable and reliable system.