Enterasys Networks 802.1Q manual Description, Vlan Components

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VLAN Operation

This chapter describes the operation of a VLAN switch and discusses the operations that a VLAN switch performs in response to both normal and VLAN-originated network traffic.

2.1DESCRIPTION

The 802.1Q VLAN operation is slightly different than the operation of traditional switched networking systems. These differences are due to the importance of keeping track of each frame and its VLAN association as it passes from switch to switch or from port to port within a switch.

2.2VLAN COMPONENTS

Before describing the operation of an 802.1Q VLAN, it is important to understand the basic elements that are combined to make up an 802.1Q VLAN.

Stations

A station is any end unit that belongs to a network. In the vast majority of cases, stations are the computers through which the users access the network.

Switches

In order to configure a group of stations into a VLAN, the stations must be connected to VLAN aware switches. It is the job of the switch to classify received frames into VLAN memberships and transmit frames, according to VLAN membership, with or without a VLAN Tag Header.

VLAN Operation 2-1

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Contents 802.1Q Vlan User’s Guide Page Page Page Contents Iv Contents Figures Tables Structure of this Guide Using this GuideDocument Conventions Related DocumentsDefining VLANs Virtual Local Area NetworksExample of a Vlan Types of VLANsSecureFast VLANs 1 802.1Q VLANsOther Vlan Strategies Benefits and RestrictionsVlan ID Vlan TermsGeneric Attribute Registration Protocol Garp Your email address Getting HelpVlan Components DescriptionDefining a Vlan Configuration ProcessClassifying Frames to a Vlan Customizing the Vlan Forwarding ListInside the Switch Vlan Switch OperationBroadcasts, Multicasts, and Unknown Unicasts Receiving Frames from Vlan PortsForwarding Decisions Known Unicasts Garp Switch OperationPage Switch Without VLANs Managing the SwitchSwitch Management with Only Default Vlan Switch with VLANsSwitch Management with VLANs 802.1Q Vlan Screen Hierarchy Summary of Vlan Local ManagementWhen to Use 802.1Q Vlan Configuration Menu ScreenMenu Definitions How to AccessScreen Example Device Vlan Configuration Screen Device Vlan Configuration Screen Toggle Field DefinitionsVlan Name lower part Renaming a Vlan Changing the Vlan to FID AssociationDisabling VLANs Deleting a VlanEnabling VLANs Paging Through the Vlan List Changing the Forwarding ModePort Assignment Configuration Screen Port Assignment Configuration ScreenPort Mode Changing the Port ModeAssigning a Vlan ID Paging Through the Port List Port Filtering Configuration ScreenSee the names of the VLANs associated with the Vlan ID. If a Displaying Vlan IDs Associated with a Port Filter Using VlanSelecting the Type of Filtering for a Port Vlan Forwarding Configuration ScreenPort Type Adding Forwarding List Entries Viewing Current Vlan PortsPaging Through Vlan Forwarding List Entries Changing the Frame Format Deleting Forwarding List EntriesProtocol Vlan Configuration Screen Protocol Vlan Configuration ScreenVlan ID Protocol Type Ether type Assigning a Protocol Family to a Vlan ID28VLAN Configuration Displaying the Protocol Types on Current Ports Protocol Ports Configuration Screen10 Protocol Ports Configuration Screen Delete ALL Adding/Deleting Ports Associated with a Vlan IDQuick Vlan Walkthrough 32VLAN Configuration11 Walkthrough Stage One 12 Walkthrough Stage Two Test Vlan 14 Walkthrough Stage Four 15 Final Walkthrough Stage Page Examples Example 1, Single Switch OperationSwitch Configured for VLANs Solving the ProblemFrame Handling Example 2, VLANs Across Multiple SwitchesExample 2, VLANs Across Multiple Switches Switch Bridge 1 Broadcasts Frames Transmitting to Switch Transmitting to Bridge Example 3, 1D Trunk Connection to 802.1Q Vlan NetworkExample 3, 1D Trunk Connection to 802.1Q Vlan Network Switch 4 is set as follows Frame Handling Switch 2 Forwards to 1Q Trunk 10 Switch 1 Forwards to 1D Trunk Example 4, Isolating Network Traffic According to Protocol 11 Example 4, Isolating Traffic According to Protocol 16Examples Example 4, Isolating Network Traffic According to Protocol 18Examples Numerics IndexIndex-2 Index-3

802.1Q specifications

Enterasys Networks, a subsidiary of the Siemens Group, is widely recognized for its comprehensive networking solutions, with a strong emphasis on security, reliability, and performance. One of the key technologies offered by Enterasys is 802.1Q, a critical component of Ethernet networking that establishes standards for VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) tagging. This technology is essential for enhancing network performance and managing traffic efficiently.

The primary feature of 802.1Q is its ability to create VLANs, which segment a physical network into multiple logical networks. This segmentation improves network security by isolating sensitive data and restricting access to specific users or devices. With VLANs, organizations can reduce broadcast traffic, thereby enhancing overall network efficiency. Different departments within an organization can operate on their own VLAN, ensuring that their traffic is kept separate from others.

One significant technological aspect of 802.1Q is its tagging method. When a frame passes through a switch port configured for IEEE 802.1Q, the switch appends a VLAN tag to the frame. This tag contains important information, such as the VLAN ID, enabling switches and devices throughout the network to identify which VLAN the frame belongs to. This tagging is especially critical in environments where multiple VLANs share the same physical infrastructure.

Another characteristic of Enterasys Networks' implementation of 802.1Q is interoperability with existing network standards and protocols. This means that organizations can implement VLAN tagging without requiring major upgrades or replacements of their switch hardware. Enterasys ensures that its switches are compliant with various industry standards, making it easier for enterprises to integrate these solutions into their existing network settings.

Security is another vital feature of Enterasys Networks’ 802.1Q offering. By leveraging VLANs, organizations can enforce stricter access controls and policies, reducing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive network segments. This is particularly beneficial for industries with stringent compliance requirements, such as finance and healthcare.

In summary, Enterasys Networks' 802.1Q technology plays a pivotal role in modern networking by facilitating VLAN creation, enabling efficient traffic management, ensuring interoperability, and bolstering network security. As organizations increasingly rely on connected devices and data-driven processes, technologies like 802.1Q are essential for building robust, scalable, and secure networking environments.
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