Chapter 6 VLAN

The traditional Ethernet is a data network communication technology based on CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detect) via shared communication medium. Through the traditional Ethernet, the overfull hosts in LAN will result in serious collision, flooding broadcasts, poor performance or even breakdown of the Internet. Though connecting the LANs through switches can avoid the serious collision, the flooding broadcasts cannot be prevented, which will occupy plenty of bandwidth resources, causing potential serious security problems.

A Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) is a network topology configured according to a logical scheme rather than the physical layout. The VLAN technology is developed for switches to control broadcast in LANs. By creating VLANs in a physical LAN, you can divide the LAN into multiple logical LANs, each of which has a broadcast domain of its own. Hosts in the same VLAN communicate with one another as if they are in a LAN. However, hosts in different VLANs cannot communicate with one another directly. Therefore, broadcast packets are limited in a VLAN. Hosts in the same VLAN communicate with one another via Ethernet whereas hosts in different VLANs communicate with one another through the Internet devices such as Router, the Lay3 switch, etc. The following figure illustrates a VLAN implementation.

Figure 6-1 VLAN implementation

Compared with the traditional Ethernet, VLAN enjoys the following advantages.

1Broadcasts are confined to VLANs. This decreases bandwidth utilization and improves network performance.

2Network security is improved. VLANs cannot communicate with one another directly. That is, a host in a VLAN cannot access resources in another VLAN directly, unless routers or Layer 3 switches are used.

3Network configuration workload for the host is reduced. VLAN can be used to group specific hosts. When the physical position of a host changes within the range of the VLAN, you do not need to change its network configuration.

A VLAN can span across multiple switches, or even routers. This enables hosts in a VLAN to be dispersed in a looser way. That is, hosts in a VLAN can belong to different physical network segments. This switch supports three ways, namely, 802.1Q VLAN, MAC VLAN and Protocol VLAN, to classify VLANs. VLAN tags in the packets are necessary for the switch to identify

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TP-Link TL-SG3424P manual Vlan

TL-SG3424P specifications

The TP-Link TL-SG3424P is a high-performance managed switch designed to meet the needs of small to medium-sized businesses. Offering 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, this device is an ideal solution for improving network efficiency and ensuring seamless data transfer across multiple devices. The switch not only facilitates connectivity but also provides robust management features to enhance the performance and security of your network.

One of the standout features of the TL-SG3424P is its Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability, which allows it to deliver power and data over the same Ethernet cable. This feature is particularly beneficial for deploying devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points without the need for additional power sources. With a total power budget of 250W, the TL-SG3424P can support a diverse range of PoE devices, providing convenience and flexibility in deployment.

In terms of management, the TL-SG3424P offers a user-friendly web interface, allowing network administrators to configure and monitor the switch with ease. It supports advanced Layer 2 features, including VLANs, Quality of Service (QoS), and Link Aggregation. These features enhance network performance by optimizing traffic flow and prioritizing essential applications. The switch also includes comprehensive security features, such as Port Security and Access Control Lists (ACL), which help protect against unauthorized access and ensure data integrity.

The build quality of the TL-SG3424P is robust, designed to handle demanding network environments. It includes a fanless design, which ensures silent operation, making it suitable for office environments where noise can be a distraction. The metal chassis is durable and built for longevity, ensuring that the device will withstand rigorous usage over time.

Furthermore, the TL-SG3424P supports SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), allowing for centralized network monitoring and management. This makes it easier for IT teams to keep track of network health and performance, enabling timely interventions when necessary.

In conclusion, the TP-Link TL-SG3424P is a versatile and powerful managed switch that combines PoE capabilities with advanced network management features, making it a perfect choice for businesses looking to upgrade their network infrastructure. With its reliable performance and robust features, it provides an excellent solution for enhancing productivity and connectivity in any office setting.