What is VLAN in the Computer Network?


VLAN stands for Virtual LAN. It is a logical grouping of network devices. When we create VLAN, we break the large broadcast domain into smaller broadcast domains. Consider VLAN as a subnet. The same as two different subnets cannot communicate without a router, and different VLANs also require the router to transmit.

Features

There are various features of VLAN, which are as follows −

  • Virtual LANs offer structure for creating groups of devices, even if their networks are different.

  • It can raise the broadcast domains possible in a LAN.

  • VLANs can be performing VLANs reduces the security risks as the number of hosts connected to the broadcast domain decreases.

  • This is performed by configuring a separate virtual LAN for only the hosts having sensitive information.

  • It has a flexible networking model that groups users depending on their departments instead of network location.

  • It can change hosts/users on a VLAN is relatively easy. It just needs a new portlevel configuration.

  • It can reduce congestion by sharing traffic as individual VLAN works as a separate LAN.

Advantages

The advantages of VLAN are as follows −

  • It can be allowing network administrators to apply additional security to network communication.

  • It is used to make the expansion and relocation of a network or a network device easier.

  • It can provide flexibility because administrators can configure in a centralized environment while the devices might be located in different geographical locations.

  • It can be decreasing the latency and traffic load on the network and the network devices, offering increased performance.

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of VLAN are as follows −

  • It can have a high risk of virus issues because one infected system may spread a virus through the whole logical network.

  • It is more effective at controlling latency than a WAN but less efficient than a LAN.

Updated on: 04-May-2021

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