Abstract
We will discuss the benefits of having a VLAN and how it can and will help an expanding business. There is a plan to segment the network into different broadcast domains to avoid bandwidth consumption as well as a plan to improve security in the growing business. There are choices of membership and types of membership over different options. There are two choices of switched that can be used and why the choice is best for this business. There are also trunking configurations on the switch and the types will be discussed. With the various benefits and purpose of using the VLAN trunk protocol will be discussed. A VTP mode is also used to configure the switches as well as a backup plan.
VLAN
The world is changing and improving from a technology view. There is no wonder in its way the network and connections are constantly changing. Recent technology advances is called a VLAN or Virtual Local Area Network. A VLAN is a small group within a LAN that is created by software instead of moving wires in an electronic space. It combines user locations and device networks into a one space no matter where the physical location is. It allows the data to flow better within a large area of interest.
It is important to decide whether to apply a VLAN. When deciding, it is best to contemplate the advantages of doing so. Sometimes the benefits out way any disadvantages it may have but in most cases it is an advantage. Some advantages of a VLAN are the security it provides, the cost it takes to implement it, the physical layer, and broadcast. From a company’s position each one of these advantages are very important.
The enhanced security lets the network administrator to manage each user and each port no matter where they are located in a building or outside a building. This prevents employees and others from simply plugging in and playing. The administrator grants access to who has contact to what information and where that information is allowed to go.
Because cost is an important advantage of virtual local area networks, it is important that the VLAN does not require each user or group of users to have access to a personal router. This is because VLAN networks make use of switches. Switches are usually more cost efficient than what routers are, even in a large scale business.
VLAN allows the main network to work in different areas of the business. Appling a Virtual Local Area Network provides business to have smaller networks and each department in the company for example call center, human resources, marketing, and engineering to have its own network.
When deciding to execute a VLAN network, it is important to know that in order to create a successful VLAN network a layer 3 switch is required. Layer 2 may satisfy the needs of a VLAN and security but does not provide control of the network or speed of network operations. Layer 3 switches provide greater control of the network.
There are different types of links that are involved with a VLAN network. Access links are used to connect hosts and trunk links are used to connect to the base of the network. One link is called the access links. “Access links are the most common type of link used on any VLAN switch. They are the normal ports found on every switch but it is configured in a special way so you are not able to plug a computer into them and access your network.” (Cisco, 2000-2014) A trunk link needs the capacity to carry packets from all available LANs. LANs span over multiple switches. Trunk link failed on one switch would be isolated from the rest of the network allowing for an easier repair of the switch links.
VLAN trunk protocol or VTP is a protocol that operates on the layer 2 switch and is used for messaging. VTP has the ability to modify, move and delete VLANs within the network and was developed to allow for the ability to distribute definitions at the core switch. “VTP minimizes misconfigurations and configuration inconsistencies that can cause problems, such as duplicate VLAN names or incorrect VLAN-type specifications.” (Press, 2014)
A good back up plan is needed in case of an outage inside of the VLAN. The best way is to have a star topology. With a start topology you can route the traffic to other parts of the company to continue the business as usual. This will also allow enough time to repair the VLAN. Also having a backup system in place will prevent any loss that may occur as a result of an outage.
Having a VLAN system is great for medium to large companies to protect their data in each department and prevent loss because of data being lost in the transmission of using a LAN. The lawyer 3 gives the most flexibility and security as well as easy repair options. Options include rerouting the network that has gone down and may take time to repair but business can continue as usual with little downtime. It will make no difference what floor each department is on because once the network is set up it will allow the network to be stable and less confusing when it comes to changing locations of call centers, and other departments.
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