Enterasys Networks 2H258, 2E253, 2H253, 2H252 manual Vlan Operation, Configuration Process

VLAN Operation

12.5 VLAN OPERATION

The following sections describe 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.

12.5.1 Description

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.

12.5.2 VLAN 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.

12.6 CONFIGURATION 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 Section 12.8. 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.

VLAN Operation and Network Applications 12-7