Characterizing VLAN usage in an operational network

  • Authors:
  • Prashant Garimella;Yu-Wei Eric Sung;Nan Zhang;Sanjay Rao

  • Affiliations:
  • Purdue University;Purdue University;Purdue University;Purdue University

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 2007 SIGCOMM workshop on Internet network management
  • Year:
  • 2007

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Abstract

In this paper, we present one of the first studies characterizing VLAN usage in a large operational network. Our study employs a "white-box" approach, based on analysis of switch and router configuration files, and interactions with network operators. Our findings are: (i) VLANs are extensively used to enable users at physically disparate locations to be treated as a group; (ii) the performance inefficiencies resulting from such usage is significant; and (iii) the inefficiencies are exacerbated by sub-optimal placement policies. Finally, we identify potential sources of errors that may arise with VLAN configurations, and demonstrate their prevalence.