Enterasys Networks 802.1Q Configuration Process, Defining a Vlan, Classifying Frames to a Vlan

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Configuration Process

2.3CONFIGURATION PROCESS

Before a VLAN can operate, steps must be performed to configure the switch to establish and configure a VLAN. Enterasys Networks VLAN aware SmartSwitches default to operate in the 802.1Q VLAN mode. However, further configuration is necessary to establish multiple logical networks.

NOTE: The actual steps involved in VLAN configuration using Local Management are presented in Chapter 3, VLAN Configuration.This brief section describes the actions that must be taken in very general terms, and is intended only to aid in the Administrator’s understanding of VLAN switch operation.

2.3.1Defining a VLAN

A VLAN must exist and have a unique identity before any ports or rules can be assigned to it. The Administrator defines a VLAN by assigning it a unique identification number (the VLAN ID), a filter database association, and an optional name. The VLAN ID is the number that will identify data frames originating from, and intended for, the ports that will belong to this new VLAN.

2.3.2Classifying Frames to a VLAN

Now that a VLAN has been created, rules are defined to classify all frames in a VLAN. This is accomplished through management by associating a VLAN ID with each port on the switch. Optionally, frames can be classified according to a protocol identifier contained within the frame. The order of frame classification priority is by VLAN Tag, a protocol match, and lastly the PVID. This combination of the switch port’s identification and the VLAN ID becomes the Port VLAN ID (PVID).

At the same time, the Administrator configures the trunk ports that need to consider themselves members of every VLAN. The configuration of trunk ports is very important in multiswitch VLAN configurations where a frame’s VLAN membership needs to be maintained across several switches.

2.3.3Customizing the VLAN Forwarding List

Each port on a VLAN aware switch has a VLAN forwarding list that contains, as a minimum, the PVID of the VLAN configured. Additionally, the Port VLAN Forwarding List of each port can be configured to allow any number of VLANs to be added to its list. In the case of GMRP (dynamic VLANs), the list can have VLANs added and deleted by the switch as directed by the protocol.

2-2VLAN Operation

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Contents 802.1Q Vlan User’s Guide Page Page Page Contents Iv Contents Figures Tables Using this Guide Structure of this GuideRelated Documents Document ConventionsVirtual Local Area Networks Defining VLANsTypes of VLANs Example of a VlanOther Vlan Strategies 1 802.1Q VLANsSecureFast VLANs Benefits and RestrictionsVlan Terms Vlan IDGeneric Attribute Registration Protocol Garp Getting Help Your email addressDescription Vlan ComponentsClassifying Frames to a Vlan Configuration ProcessDefining a Vlan Customizing the Vlan Forwarding ListVlan Switch Operation Inside the SwitchReceiving Frames from Vlan Ports Forwarding DecisionsBroadcasts, Multicasts, and Unknown Unicasts Garp Switch Operation Known UnicastsPage Managing the Switch Switch Without VLANsSwitch with VLANs Switch Management with Only Default VlanSwitch Management with VLANs Summary of Vlan Local Management 802.1Q Vlan Screen Hierarchy802.1Q Vlan Configuration Menu Screen When to UseHow to Access Screen ExampleMenu Definitions Device Vlan Configuration Screen Device Vlan Configuration Screen Field Definitions ToggleVlan Name lower part Changing the Vlan to FID Association Renaming a VlanDeleting a Vlan Enabling VLANsDisabling VLANs Changing the Forwarding Mode Paging Through the Vlan ListPort Assignment Configuration Screen Port Assignment Configuration ScreenChanging the Port Mode Port ModeAssigning a Vlan ID Port Filtering Configuration Screen Paging Through the Port ListSee the names of the VLANs associated with the Vlan ID. If a Filter Using Vlan Displaying Vlan IDs Associated with a PortVlan Forwarding Configuration Screen Selecting the Type of Filtering for a PortPort Type Viewing Current Vlan Ports Paging Through Vlan Forwarding List EntriesAdding Forwarding List Entries Deleting Forwarding List Entries Changing the Frame FormatProtocol Vlan Configuration Screen Protocol Vlan Configuration ScreenVlan ID Protocol Type Assigning a Protocol Family to a Vlan ID Ether type28VLAN Configuration Protocol Ports Configuration Screen Displaying the Protocol Types on Current Ports10 Protocol Ports Configuration Screen Adding/Deleting Ports Associated with a Vlan ID Delete ALL32VLAN Configuration Quick Vlan Walkthrough11 Walkthrough Stage One 12 Walkthrough Stage Two Test Vlan 14 Walkthrough Stage Four 15 Final Walkthrough Stage Page Example 1, Single Switch Operation ExamplesSolving the Problem Switch Configured for VLANsExample 2, VLANs Across Multiple Switches Frame HandlingExample 2, VLANs Across Multiple Switches Switch Bridge 1 Broadcasts Frames Transmitting to Switch Example 3, 1D Trunk Connection to 802.1Q Vlan Network Transmitting to BridgeExample 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 Index NumericsIndex-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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