Avaya P333R-LB, Installation And Configuration Manual

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Chapter 11 Avaya P330 Layer 2 Features
62 Avaya P333R-LB User’s Guide
VLAN Configuration
VLAN Overview
A VLAN is made up of a group of devices on one or more LANs that are configured
so that they operate as if they form an independent LAN, when in fact they may be
located on a number of different LAN segments. VLANs can be used to group
together departments and other logical groups, thereby reducing network traffic
flow and increasing security within the VLAN.
The figure below illustrates how a simple VLAN can connect several endpoints in
different locations and attached to different hubs. In this example, the Management
VLAN consists of stations on numerous floors of the building and which are
connected to both Device A and Device B.
Figure 11.1 VLAN Overview
In virtual topological networks, the network devices may be located in diverse
places around the LAN—such as in different departments, on different floors or in
different buildings. Connections are made through software. Each network device is
connected to a hub, and the network manager uses management software to assign
each device to a virtual topological network. Elements can be combined into a
VLAN even if they are connected to different devices.
VLANs should be used whenever there are one or more groups of network users
that you want to separate from the rest of the network.
In Figure 11.2, the switch has three separate VLANs: Sales, Engineering, and