Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN)

Abstract

VLAN are based on logical instead of physical connection. And thus are tremendously flexible. A VLAN is logical Broadcast domain that can span multiple physical LAN segment. A VLAN can be  provide freedom broadcast domain for station logically segmented by function, project team, or applications without regard to the physical location of users. Every Switch port can only be assigned to only one VLAN. Port in a VLAN share broadcasts. This control of broadcast batter the networks overall performance.

VLAN switches to create multiple broadcast domains with in a switched network.  Users in this VLAN would receive a broadcast from other user member of the VLAN. Users of other VLAN would not receive these broadcasts.

A VLAN has the same property as a physical LAN, but it allows for end station to be together even if they are not located on the same network switch. Network configuration can be done through software instead of physically relocating devices. VLAN are created to provide segmentation services traditially provided by routers in LAN configuration. Routers in VLAN topology provide broadcast filtering, security, & traffic control  management.