Physical points of presence (PoPs) are expensive to deploy and often limit how quickly service providers can respond to customer demand in new regions. To address this challenge, Deutsche Telekom developed a virtual PoP architecture that extends carrier-grade MPLS L3VPN services into AWS.
This talk presents the technical architecture behind the solution, including AWS Direct Connect Gateway, Cisco 8000v virtual routers, MP-BGP, and VPNv4/VPNv6 integration. We explain the design decisions, operational considerations, and routing principles that enabled the realization of a cloud-based PoP.
Attendees will learn how cloud infrastructure can be integrated into a traditional service provider network while maintaining routing control, operational standards, and rapid service deployment.
Customer demand increasingly requires network services in regions where no physical Point of Presence exists. Building new PoPs is costly and time-consuming, making it difficult to respond to short-term requests.
In this session, we present how Deutsche Telekom designed a vPoP architecture running in AWS that extends our MPLS backbone into cloud regions while preserving carrier-grade routing and operational principles.
We will discuss the architecture, including AWS Direct Connect Gateway, Cisco 8000v virtual routers, MP-BGP (VPNv4/VPNv6), IPv4/IPv6 routing, management separation, and throughput considerations. Particular attention will be given to the design choices that enabled regional routing while avoiding AWS transit and maintaining full control over the routing domain.
The talk also covers the practical experience gained during the project, including proof of concept implementation, operational challenges, automation aspects, and lessons learned from integrating cloud infrastructure into a service provider environment.
The session is aimed at network operators, architects, and engineers interested in MPLS, BGP, cloud networking, and carrier-grade network design. Attendees will gain practical insights into extending traditional backbone services into hyperscaler environments.
Senior Network Architect, Deutsche Telekom IT Solutions
Senior Network Architect @ Deutsche Telekom Technik GmbH
Network Engineer with more than 10 years of experience in the telecommunications and financial services industries. Experienced in operating, troubleshooting, and validating complex network infrastructures, with a strong focus on delivering reliable and high-quality network solutions. Proven ability to work in international environments, collaborate across cross-functional teams, and solve complex technical challenges.