VLAN vs. Subnet: Difference and Comparison
Edited by Muazma Batool — By Muneeza Rehman — Published on December 28, 2023
VLAN is a network protocol for creating multiple logically segmented networks within a physical network; a subnet is a division of an IP network where devices have the same network prefix.
Difference Between VLAN and Subnet
A VLAN, or Virtual Local Area Network, allows devices on different physical networks to act as if they are on the same network. Conversely, a subnet, or subnetwork, divides an IP network into sub-divisions to improve performance and security. Each VLAN can contain multiple subnets, providing both segmentation and isolation at different layers of a network architecture.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
VLANs operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, enabling devices to be grouped together based on logical rather than physical connections. Subnets, on the other hand, work at the network layer (Layer 3), segregating an IP network into separate, smaller network segments, providing an essential role in IP addressing and routing.
Muazma Batool
Dec 28, 2023
The practice of implementing VLANs often involves tagging Ethernet frames with VLAN IDs to denote membership. Subnetting involves altering IP addressing and routing, using techniques like Variable Length Subnet Masking (VLSM) or Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR) to effectively distribute IP addresses within a network.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
The management of VLANs might require specific hardware, like VLAN-capable switches, to navigate between different VLANs. Subnets, alternatively, primarily require appropriate routing and IP address management to ensure effective network segmentation and communication between different subnets.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
VLAN vs. Subnet Comparison Chart
Crossing Physical Networks
Can span multiple switches
Typically restricted to a specific IP range
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
VLAN vs. Subnet Definitions
◉VLAN
A network protocol designed to create logical network segments within a physical network.
The IT manager created a VLAN for each department to isolate network traffic.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A subdivision of an IP network, sharing a common network prefix.
Our office's network was divided into subnets to efficiently manage data traffic.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023
◉VLAN
A means to logically group network nodes regardless of physical proximity.
VLANs enabled workers in various office locations to share resources as if they were physically together.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A method for optimizing and organizing IP address allocation.
By deploying subnets, the network administrator could ensure systematic IP address utilization.
Henry
Sep 30, 2023
◉VLAN
A method for partitioning a physical network into multiple, isolated logical networks.
With VLANs, the finance and engineering sectors operated on separate networks for enhanced security.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A practice for enhancing network security and performance through segmentation.
The use of subnets provided an additional layer of internal security and minimized network congestion.
Lucas
Sep 30, 2023
◉VLAN
A technique that allows scattered devices to communicate as if co-located.
The VLAN allowed devices across multiple floors to interact seamlessly.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A means to separate and manage IP address ranges within a larger network.
The subnet was created to isolate the guest Wi-Fi from the corporate network.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
◉VLAN
A strategy to improve network performance and security through logical segmentation.
Implementing VLANs mitigated broadcast storms by confining them to individual logical networks.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A mechanism to segregate network traffic based on IP address ranges.
The subnet ensured that the sales department could not access engineering’s network resources.
Muazma Batool
Sep 30, 2023
◉Subnet
A system of interconnections within a communications system that allows the components to communicate directly with each other.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
◉Subnet
(networking) A portion of a network that shares a network address in which each component is identified by a number.
Muneeza Rehman
Sep 24, 2023
VLAN vs. Subnet Frequently Asked Questions
What is a VLAN?
A VLAN is a Virtual Local Area Network that allows devices on separate physical networks to interact as if they’re on the same physical network.
Muazma Batool
Dec 28, 2023
How does a VLAN work?
VLANs work by tagging Ethernet frames with VLAN IDs at the data link layer, creating logically segmented networks within a physical network.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
What is a subnet?
A subnet, or subnetwork, is a segmented piece of a larger IP network, helping to manage and optimize data traffic within its designated IP address range.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
Can a VLAN span multiple physical locations?
Yes, VLANs can span multiple physical locations, allowing devices in different geographical areas to communicate as if they are on the same network.
Kaitlyn
Dec 28, 2023
Why would one use VLANs?
Using VLANs enhances network security and performance by logically segregating networks, managing traffic, and mitigating broadcast storms.
Kaitlyn
Dec 28, 2023
Why would one use subnets?
Using subnets improves network performance, security, and management by segregating IP address ranges and optimizing data traffic flow.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
How does a subnet work?
Subnets work by dividing an IP network into smaller, separate networks, each with its own range of IP addresses, managed at the network layer.
Muneeza Rehman
Dec 28, 2023
How is a VLAN different from a subnet?
VLANs operate at Layer 2 (data link layer) of the OSI model and create logical network segments, while subnets operate at Layer 3 (network layer) and divide IP networks into smaller sections.
Kaitlyn
Dec 28, 2023
Can VLANs and subnets work together?
Yes, VLANs and subnets can work together, with VLANs managing logical segmentation and subnets managing IP address segmentation within those logical networks.
Olivia
Dec 28, 2023
Can a subnet span multiple VLANs?
Typically, no; a subnet is confined to a specific range of IP addresses and doesn’t span across multiple VLANs.
Levi
Dec 28, 2023
Content Creators
Written by
Muneeza RehmanAt Comparisons.wiki, Muneeza skillfully navigates the vast sea of information, ensuring clarity and accuracy as the lead content editor. With a keen eye for detail, she curates every comparison to enlighten and engage readers.
Edited by
Muazma BatoolAs a content editor, Muazma Batool is not just a grammar guru but a creative mastermind who breathes life into every word. With an eagle eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she transforms bland text into engaging content that captivates audiences and drives results.
