What is a VLAN?
A VLAN, or Virtual Local Area Network, is a technology used in computer networks to logically divide a physical network into multiple isolated broadcast domains. This division is achieved by assigning network nodes (devices such as computers, servers, and network switches) to different VLANs, even if they are connected to the same physical network infrastructure.
Key characteristics of VLANs include:
- Logical Segmentation: VLANs provide a way to create isolated broadcast domains within a larger network. Devices within the same VLAN can communicate with each other as if they are on the same physical network, regardless of their actual physical location.
- Broadcast Control: VLANs help control and limit the broadcast traffic within a network. Broadcasts are contained within the VLAN, reducing the overall broadcast domain size and improving network efficiency.
- Security: VLANs enhance network security by isolating traffic. Devices in one VLAN typically cannot communicate directly with devices in another VLAN without the intervention of a router or Layer 3 switch.
- Flexibility: VLANs provide flexibility in network design by allowing administrators to organize devices based on logical requirements rather than physical location. This is especially useful in large networks or environments with frequent changes.
- Performance Optimization: VLANs can be used to optimize network performance by grouping devices with similar communication patterns or requirements. For example, separating voice and data traffic into different VLANs can improve the quality of voice communications.
VLANs operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) and are typically implemented in managed switches that support IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging. VLAN information is added to Ethernet frames through tagging, allowing switches to identify and forward frames to the appropriate VLANs. Routers or Layer 3 switches are used to facilitate communication between different VLANs.