Benefits of using VLANs
VLANs (Benefits of using VLANs)
As we are progressing in time, so are science and technology. Everything that we do now is somewhat associated with technology. For example, when we want to connect to our friends overseas, we use our smartphones. When we want to write an assignment, we use our laptops. There are several types of operating systems in there as well, such as windows and other applications that allow us to use devices to their fullest potential. Similarly, the way we do our businesses has changed dramatically because of the advancement in technology.
Technology and innovation, especially in the information technology (IT) sector, have significantly impacted how we do business nowadays. There are so many IT solutions that companies are using for their advantage today, which is helping them achieve their organization’s goals. Businesses are making use of this technology to stay connected with their employees, customers, and suppliers round the clock, which them in their routine operations.
There are many ways that businesses can use technology to their advantage. However, smaller companies are unable to take full advantage of these IT solutions.
In this blog, we will talk about the most important network tools that businesses need in order to make full use of technology.
VLAN
VLAN is the most important thing in the IT industry today. Whether they are big, small, or medium, all businesses need to operate using some computer network. Most business communications, sharing folders, or projects are done over certain networks. However, most businesses do not take advantage of the fully updated networks or technologies to be more efficient. There is one tool that gives organizations the required benefits that it needs to have for good working communication, Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN).
What is VLAN?
VLAN is a virtual network in an organization that is made up of one or more local area networks. It is where a certain group of devices unite and become a network. It results in the creation of a VLAN that is managed like a physical LAN.
Without the VLANS, a signal or a broadcast sent from one of the devices, called the host device, cannot easily reach other network devices. Therefore it is a way to keep the connectivity amongst the other devices in an organization.
This type of setup is often found in schools, laboratories, office buildings, etc., as the VLAN allows important communication to flow within the network; it even allows sharing resources like files, printers, games, and other applications.
How does VLAN work?
Here we will talk about how VLAN works.
· VLAN is a network that has numerical identification.
· You will find VLAN numerical range anywhere between 1 and 4094. There is a VLAN switch where you have to assign ports with the valid VLAN number.
· The switch then works to allow data from the port to be sent to various ports that have the same VLAN.
· All networks are larger than a single switch; therefore, there has to be a way to send traffic between the two switches.
· The easiest way to send traffic between two switches is by assigning a port on every switch with a VLAN and running a cable between them.
Characteristics of VLAN
Like any other IT solution, there are specific characteristics; each one of those characteristics offers a solution to a problem. Virtual LANs are like that person who invites everyone to the party and keeps the group of friends together even though they have different personalities and vibe.
VLAN offers a structure that helps bring all devices together even if their networks are different. Having a VLAN also increases your broadcast domains and helps you to reduce your risk of security breaches, and all the hosts are connected to one broadcast domain. There is a separate virtual LAN for hosts with sensitive information, and other hosts do not have access to it. You can also change the hosts or users in the VLAN. It is easy to do, and all you need is a new port-level configuration. A workstation can also work with a full bandwidth at each port, and terminal location becomes very easy in your company.
Benefits of having VLAN
Uses
Division of network helps improve security levels, reliability, and efficiency of a network. There are many ways a VLAN can be used to its fullest potential. The most popular way of using VLAN is to separate guest traffic from staff traffic through the network system division. It allows the guests to be on the internet and be on a different network. VLANs can also limit employees’ accessibility to sensitive or unnecessary information. One of the best examples is to keep finance staff away from the HR department’s information. This division not only separates the traffic but improves security and durability.
Security
The major advantage of using a VLAN network is the aspect of security that it provides. The traffic division and segmentation of the traffic restrict unwanted, unknown, and unauthorized users from getting on sensitive networks. It reduces security threats and protects sensitive data. Moreover, different security software and firewalls can be installed to enhance your security.
Flexibility
In the organization, VLAN acts like the friend who brings people together; it brings administrators and users together. Even if your employee moves to a different desk, they will still be on the same network and will be able to access information authorized to him via the VLAN.
Simpler IT Management
For IT people managing bugs and issues in VLAN can be much easier, and they can resolve them much quicker. The management becomes easy as the division allows different security controls for each network.
Conclusion
We are a leading IT firm that works day and night to provide our clients with a good IT infrastructure to help them conduct business operations smoothly. We have experienced professionals on board who can advise you on the kind of networks and other IT solutions your business needs to improve the way you operate. If you have any queries and need further assistance, contact us today; our representative will be right there with you.