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Difference between LAN and VLAN
In the realm of networking, two terms that often come up are LAN (Local Area Network) and VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network). While both play crucial roles in connecting devices within a network, they operate differently and serve distinct purposes. Understanding the disparities between LAN and VLAN is essential for designing efficient network infrastructures and ensuring optimal performance. Let’s delve into the dissimilarities between these two concepts.
What ia LAN
A LAN, or Local Area Network, is a network that connects computers and devices within a limited geographical area, such as an office building, school campus, or home. It allows connected devices to share resources like printers, files, and internet connections. LANs typically operate within a single site and are commonly used in small to medium-sized networks.
Advantages of LAN:
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- Resource Sharing
- High-Speed Data Transfer
- Ease of Setup and Maintenance
Disadvantages of LAN:
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- Limited Coverage
- Security Concerns
- Costly
- Scalability Issues
- Dependency on Physical Infrastructure
What is VLAN
A VLAN, or Virtual Local Area Network, is a network that segments a physical network into multiple distinct logical networks. Unlike traditional LANs, which rely on physical connections to connect devices within a confined area, VLANs are created through software-based configurations on network switches. VLANs enable network administrators to group devices logically, regardless of their physical location, facilitating better network management and security.
Advantages of VLAN:
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- Logical segmentation of networks
- Improved Security
- Flexibility and Scalability
- Cost-Effectiveness
- Optimized Network Performance
Disadvantages of VLAN:
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- Configuring and managing VLANs can be complex
- Potential for Misconfiguration
- Inter-VLAN communication can be more complex to configure and manage compared to intra-VLAN communication.
Difference between LAN and VLAN-
Differences between LAN and VLAN are as follows:
| Feature | LAN | VLAN |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Local Area Network | Virtual Local Area Network |
| Functionality | Operates within a single broadcast domain | Operates across multiple broadcast domains |
| Developed | Late 1970s | 2003 |
| Cost | intial cost of LAN is High | intial cost of LAN is Less |
| Latency | High | Low |
| Devices | Hubs, Routers, Switches | Bridges, Switches |
| Protocols | Standard Ethernet protocols | ISP and VTP standard protocols |
| Range | Up to 2 miles | Similar |
| Packet Distribution | Advertised to each device | Sent to specific broadcast domains |
| Efficiency | Less efficient | More efficient |
| Configuration | No special commands required | Multiple commands may be needed |
| Types | None | Default, Data, Native, Management, Voice VLAN |
