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Difference Between VLAN and Subnet
VLAN (virtual local area network) and subnet are two different computer networking concepts. A VLAN is a logical group of connected devices on the same physical network, whereas a subnet is a logical division of an IP network that allows devices to communicate with one another.
Read this article to find out more about VLAN and Subnet and how they are different from each other.
What is VLAN?
A VLAN (virtual local area network) is a logical grouping of network devices that are connected to the same physical network but appear to be on different physical networks. In other words, VLANs allow devices to be grouped together logically, regardless of their physical location.
A VLAN works by separating broadcast domains within a single physical network. All devices on a physical network receive all broadcast traffic by default, which can cause network congestion and degrade network performance. However, by establishing VLANs, broadcast traffic can be restricted to specific devices within the VLAN, reducing overall network broadcast traffic.
VLANs can be configured on network switches, and each one is given a unique identity known as a VLAN ID (or VID). When a device is connected to a switch port, it can be allocated to a VLAN based on criteria like port number, MAC address, or protocol type.
There are several benefits of using VLANs in network design, including −
Better network performance − VLANs are useful for separating network traffic and controlling access to sensitive data. Finance and human resources departments, for example, can be assigned to separate VLANs to prevent unauthorized access.
Simplified network management − VLANs can be used to group devices together based on logical criteria, allowing administrators to control devices based on their logical grouping rather than their physical location.
Greater flexibility − VLANs are easily reconfigurable, allowing administrators to adapt the network to changing needs.
What is Subnet?
A subnet is a logical division of an IP network that allows devices to communicate. A subnet is formed by breaking down a larger IP network into smaller segments. A unique subnet mask specifies each subnet and sets the range of IP addresses available within that network.
Subnets are used to improve network scalability and manageability by dividing a large network into smaller segments. Network administrators can better organize network resources and allocate IP addresses by establishing subnets.
When a device transmits a message to another device on the same subnet, the message is delivered straight to the intended recipient. When a device wants to communicate with a device on another subnet, the message is routed through the default gateway, which is a device that connects the subnets.
Subnetting also contributes to network security by restricting the amount of network traffic that can be transmitted over the network. This is achieved by creating separate broadcast domains for each subnet, preventing broadcast traffic from propagating throughout the entire network.
Classful Addressing, Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR), and Variable-Length Subnet Masking (VLSM) are all methods for creating subnets. Each technique has advantages and disadvantages, and network administrators must select the technique that best matches their requirements.
Difference Between VLAN and Subnet
The following table highlights the major differences between VLAN and Subnet −
Characteristics |
VLAN |
Subnet |
|---|---|---|
Unique Identifier |
VLAN ID (VID) |
Subnet Mask |
Purpose |
Logical grouping of devices |
Logical grouping of devices |
OSI Layer |
Layer 2 |
Layer 3 |
Criteria for grouping |
Port number, MAC address, or protocol type |
IP address range |
Improves |
Network performance and security |
Network scalability and management |
Security |
Can be used to isolate sensitive information by creating separate VLANs |
Can be used to limit the amount of network traffic that can be sent across the network |
Examples |
Guest network, VoIP network, wireless network |
Engineering department, Marketing department, Sales department |
Techniques |
Can be configured using port number, MAC address, or protocol type |
Can be created using Classful Addressing, CIDR, or VLSM |
Conclusion
In conclusion, VLAN and subnet are two separate concepts in computer networking that fulfil different purposes. Subnets are used to divide a network into smaller, more manageable segments, whereas VLANs are used to group devices together based on logical criteria. VLANs operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, whereas subnets operate at the network layer.
VLANs primarily increase network performance and security by reducing broadcast traffic and segregating network traffic, whereas subnets improve network scalability and manageability by dividing a large network into smaller, more manageable segments. VLANs and subnets are both useful tools in network design and management, and their suitable implementation can improve network performance, security, and manageability.
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