A LAN, (Local Area Network) is the connection of multiple computers, network devices and network peripherals in one physical location. Most standard networks operate their entire infrastructure in one LAN and are unaware of the benefits of using separate subnetworks, called VLANs.
A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a Layer 2 virtual network that exists on a common physical interface and allows multiple virtual networks to pass through a single ethernet cable or network bridge. VLANs are used for many applications of Computer Networking including Voice over IP, Virtual Machine environments, for general isolation and security, and complex network environments.
VLANS improve security, enhance network security, and allow scalability on medium to large sized networking applications.
VLANs are configurable to each specific network environment, and with the appropriate firewall configurations will allow different sets of users and devices to access separate resources. VLAN’s are identified by VLAN ID Tags, such as VLAN1, VLAN2, VLAN3. A network can be configured with up to 4,096 VLANs as defined in the IEEE 802.1Q standard.
A user or device can be placed in a VLAN Group based on multiple configurable parameters, including type of application, user authentication, and security groups. A VLAN placement is not based on a physical network connection, but instead a software based protocol that is configurable on a network router and network switches on a network. This allows the network engineer to group devices together which are not physically connected to the same network switch.
Common applications for a VLAN include:
- A Voice over IP System (Separate voice traffic from internet traffic)
- Guest Wireless Network Access (For Isolation and Network security purposes)
- DMZ Zone (Demilitarized Zone)
- Cloud Computing
- Network and Device Management for Network Equipment
To learn more about Virtual Networking Solutions, give us a call at +1 (562) 592-1771 or email sales@nickologic.com