Abstract
This paper describes performance evaluation of multimedia data streaming over IP and MPLS networks using OPNET simulation tools. The experimental study is carried out by employing VOIP and video streaming applications in both networks with same parameters; but with different routing mechanisms. Therefore, same network model scenario is built with MPLS and TCP/IP networks by replacing MPLS routers by normal IP routers running OSPF routing and disabling MPLS functions. Furthermore, the evaluation process is done using three different queuing mechanisms; namely (FIFO, PQ, and WPQ) with the following performance parameters: the delay jitter (sec), packet delay variation, packet end-to-end delay (sec), and number of packets sent/received which indicates the traffic load, bandwidth and throughput for both networks. Results obtained are clear evidence that the MPLS networks are much appropriate for multimedia applications than conventional IP networks.