Virtual local area networks (VLANs) are a valuable yet often underused tool in network administration. This article will explain what a VLAN is and provide a step-by-step guide on how to set one up.
A VLAN is a software defined networking (SDN) technology that allows for the separation of network segments without the need for additional hardware. It is commonly used to isolate specific branches of a network from the rest, providing enhanced security and improved performance. For example, a VLAN can be used to create a separate network for customer Wi-Fi access, ensuring that public users have internet connectivity while keeping sensitive company data secure.
The benefits of using a VLAN in an office environment are significant. It allows for the creation of customized network setups based on individual job functions or departments, both locally and remotely. Additionally, VLANs enable the prioritization of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications have sufficient bandwidth even during peak usage.
To set up a VLAN, you will need compatible network equipment capable of VLAN configuration. The process may vary depending on your specific devices, but the following steps provide a general overview:
Verify that your router or switch supports VLANs and enable VLAN support if necessary.
Determine the physical ports on your equipment that will be assigned to the VLAN. Each VLAN should have a dedicated port or set of ports.
Cable the access point(s) for the VLAN to the designated ports on your switch or router. Ensure that there are no physical connections between the VLAN and the rest of the network to maintain isolation.
Access the management console of your network switch or router and create a new VLAN. Assign it a unique identification number (ID) between 2 and 4096, with ID 1 being reserved for unassigned traffic.
Give your VLAN a name, similar to a Wi-Fi network’s SSID, for ease of identification.
Configure the parameters for your VLAN, including access rights, communication ports, bandwidth allocation, and transport protocols. Tailor these settings to align with the specific purpose of your VLAN.
Consider implementing traffic prioritization within the VLAN, ensuring that critical sub-networks have higher bandwidth allocation when necessary.
Determine which users or endpoints will be routed through the VLAN. This can be based on job functions, departments, or specific locations. Active Directory or single sign-on (SSO) systems can help manage user routing.
Set up any additional network equipment, such as a public Wi-Fi access point, to connect to the VLAN and configure it appropriately.
Test the VLAN setup by connecting to the designated access point(s) and ensuring that internet access is provided without access to the internal business network.
While this guide provides a basic example of setting up a VLAN, the versatility of VLAN technology allows for various network management tasks across different scenarios. VLANs are an indispensable tool in modern networking, providing greater security, improved performance, and enhanced customization options.