Virtual Lan

The Virtual LAN

A Virtual LAN (VLAN) is a logical subgroup of computer devices within a local area network (PCMAG.COM, 2011). Each VLAN is created via software, which eliminates the need for cables to be moved. VLAN incorporates user stations and network devices, into a single unit. The single unit can occur regardless of what physical LAN segment the unit is attached to. Providing a VLAN will allow traffic to flow more resourcefully within regions of mutual interest (PCMAG.COM, 2011).

Benefit of a VLAN

VLAN provides several benefits, which are not available in a typical LAN. To summarize, VLAN benefits include:

• Increased Performance

• Improved network manageability

• Simplification of network configuration and tuning

• Physical topology freedom

• Better security options

Performance – By grouping users into logical networks, provides increased performance while limiting traffic to users performing similar task or individual groups (UC Davis Network 21, 2011).

Manageability – Implementing VLAN’s provide easier management of large networks, by providing a standard configuration of devices in a mixed environment (UC Davis Network 21, 2011).

Network tuning – Grouping users into a single subnet will allow LAN administrators to have more flexibility to fine tune their networks by logically grouping users. Incorporating VLAN’s into the network provides consistent network protocols across the network reducing local server resources such as BOOTP and DHCP having to be implemented in this environment (UC Davis Network 21, 2011).

Physical Freedom – Once the physical infrastructure is in place, it becomes easier to add ports to existing VLANs if the department would expand or relocate (UC Davis Network 21, 2011).

Security – VLANs provide additional security, which not available in a media shared network. VLAN network delivers frames to the intended device, and broadcast frames...