Around My World

As IT departments continue to implement Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs) to contain broadcast traffic, load-balance and enhance data security, the need to effectively monitor and troubleshoot VLANs becomes more apparent. This white paper illustrates some of the benefits a VLAN-ready network analyzer provides in managing VLAN configurations.

Does your network analyzer have the necessary features to effectively deploy and maintain VLAN infrastructure? You should look for the ability to measure traffic levels by VLAN, list stations by VLAN, and view VLAN port assignments. These features are essential not only for successful VLAN deployment and upgrade, but will make day-to-day network troubleshooting more efficient and less costly as well.

VLANs are proliferating in corporate networks for a number of good reasons:

• to contain broadcast traffic

• to act as a load balancing tool

• to enhance data security

Along with the benefits of VLANs come some maintenance and troubleshooting challenges. Does your network analyzer "do VLANs?" This white paper presents examples of how Network Instruments' Observer can effectively manage a VLAN installation.

There are three major reasons for using VLANs to control network traffic: Security/Mobility, Quality of Service(QoS), and administrative control of the network. The following VLAN implementations will fit into one, two, or even all three of these reasons for VLANs.