VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)
A VLAN is a group of end-stations that are not constrained by their physical location and can communicate as if a common broadcast domain, a LAN. The primary utility of using VLAN is to reduce latency and the need for routers, by using faster switching instead. Other VLAN utility includes:
Security, Security is increased with the reduction of opportunity in eavesdropping on a broadcast network because data will be switched to only those confidential users within the VLAN.
Cost Reduction, VLANs can be used to create multiple broadcast domains, thus eliminating the need of expensive routers. Port-based (or port-group) VLAN is the common method of implementing a VLAN, and is the one supplied in the Switch.
