VLAN vs. VPN: Unveiling the Key Differences

The Internet has become part of our daily lives. Many security technologies have been developed to protect users' sensitive information and defend against online malpractices, such as VLANs and VPNs.This article will explore the differences between the two, and hopefully, it will be helpful to you.

Basics of VLAN and VPN

These two devices are undoubted to be easily seen on the office premises. Let's look at what VLANs and VPNs are and what they are used for.

What is VLAN, and How Does it Work?

A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a technology used in computer networking to partition a physical network into multiple isolated networks logically. It enables devices to communicate as if they were on the same physical network, even if they are physically separated.

VLANs work by adding a tag to network packets and indicating which VLAN they belong. Network switches then use these tags to segregate traffic, ensuring that data within a VLAN only reaches devices within that same VLAN.

What is VPN, and How Does it Work?

VPN stands for "Virtual Private Network" and is a service that helps you maintain your privacy online. A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between your computer and the Internet, providing a private channel for your data and communications while you use a public network.

VPNs work by routing a device's Internet connection through a private service instead of the user's regular Internet Service Provider (ISP). They act as an intermediary between a user's Internet access and connection to the Internet by hiding the user's IP address.

VLAN vs. VPN: Comparison Table

These two are networking technologies, but the critical difference between VLAN and VPN is that they serve different purposes. The table below will illustrate how each feature differs in detail.

VLAN vs. VPN: Key Differences Explained

The difference between VPNs and VLANs is evident; they are entirely different technologies for different uses. The two technologies have similar roles, which are to improve security and provide some control over network traffic. Let's dive into the differences between them.

Purpose

VLAN is to group separate devices to improve communication between devices and simplify the changes network administrators can make to the network infrastructure. VPN can connect an organization's network to authorized users and employees.

Scope

VPN operates at the OSI model's network layer (layer 3), while VLAN operates at the data link layer (layer 2).

Note: The Open Systems Interconnection Model(OSI model) is a conceptual model proposed by the International Organization for Standardization, a standard framework that attempts to interconnect various computers into networks worldwide. It is defined in ISO/IEC 7498-1. The model divides data flow in a communication system into seven layers, ranging from the top-level representation of distributed application data to the physical implementation of the data being transferred across the communication medium.

Segmentation

VLAN separates devices within a local network and ensures each section(network) can function independently. VPN to connect remote networks or users through a specified encrypted tunnel.

Security

VLAN has limited security benefits, typically within a single organization. VLANs come in handy when network administrators need to segregate network traffic for security, performance, or other reasons.

In contrast, VPN enhances security through encryption and authentication. The server run by the VPN provider acts as an intermediary between the user and the Internet, and all data transmitted between the two is encrypted.

Configuration

Because VPNs require configuration on both the client and server side, since they need to connect a remote device to its server. On the other hand, VLANs only need to be configured on the network switch, as it only serves as a distribution.

Accessibility

VPN can only be used to access a network from anywhere there is an Internet connection. As a result, it only allows devices to connect as if they were on the same local network. While VLAN is limited to the physical network on which it is created, so VLAN enables devices within the same VLAN can communicate directly.

Scalability

The network infrastructure may limit VLAN's scalability. However, a VPN allows users to access the Internet or a private network from a remote location, providing privacy and security while accessing the Internet.

Benefits of VLAN and VPN

VLAN and VPN may be great solutions to meet users' demands; both are powerfully functional. In the following text, we will further discuss the benefits of VLAN and VPN, respectively.

Benefits of VLAN

• Significant versatility: VLAN effectively provides a more efficient and secure network environment by dividing a LAN into numerous smaller LANs. This allows users in the middle of each small LAN to be free from interference from other small LANs. The most common way to use VLANs is to separate visitor traffic from employee traffic by dividing the network system.
• Enhanced security: The main advantage of using a VLAN network is its security. The division and segmentation of traffic restrict unwanted, unknown, and unauthorized users from accessing sensitive networks.
• Improved flexibility: Even though the users under a VLAN are not in the same space, they can still connect through the network and carry out their daily work.
• Simplified management: In the event of a problem in a related department, technicians can quickly find out which network is at fault without troubleshooting the more extensive network, significantly simplifying the process and improving efficiency.

Benefits of VPN

• Ability to transcend geographical constraints: VPN allows remote resource sharing and network connectivity. Many websites only recommend specific content in specific regions of the world, but users who want to view that content can access a VPN to do so.
• Enhanced security through anonymity: When using a VPN, your web information appears to be coming from a different location than where you are.
• Secure connection for remote work: Today's businesses need to consider Internet security more than ever. With more people working from home, the risk of sensitive company and customer information being stolen is increasing.
• Cost-effective and efficient: The latest software and firewalls can be expensive and can end up causing more problems. Using a VPN avoids costly license fees or monthly fees. While it may not be able to scan for viruses or stop intruders trying to connect to your computer, a VPN essentially allows you to be invisible online, thus avoiding the need for these features.

VLAN vs. VPN: Problems and Solutions

While both VLANs and VPNs are helpful and powerful, they can have problems. And it would help if you learned some ways to solve those problems. Besides, you should also be aware of these situations when using them.

Common VLAN Issues and Solutions

• VLAN mismatch: Local VLAN mismatch occurs when the same switch interface is configured with different native VLANs. The trunking mode of the two ports is also a critical factor in determining the local VLAN mismatch. The solution is as simple as configuring the same VLAN on all interfaces of the hub so that traffic generated is redirected to only one VLAN.
• Problems with physical connections: VLANs are made up of connectors and virtual components, but some physical connections still need to be secured. Once there are some problems, you must check if the LEDs on the physical switches are blinking. LED lights indicate that the first layer is working correctly. The second step is to ensure the cables are properly connected and in good condition with no signs of wear and tear damage. If the problem is on the cable or the network card, you need to replace the NIC or cable and check if the problem persists. If it still exists, then consult a professional for repair or replacement.
• Missing VLAN: Each VLAN has an assigned port that makes it part of the network. However, there are times when a port on a switch becomes inactive. To resolve this issue, you can use the "show VLAN" command to search the table of available LANs and check if any have been deleted.

Common VPN Problems and Solutions

• VPN is too slow: If the VPN runs too slowly, try connecting to a different server or protocol. Reducing internet activity through the VPN may also solve the problem. If the problem persists, the issue may not be with your VPN, so test your internet speed to see if your internet connection is at fault.
• VPN is not connecting: If your VPN fails to connect, ensure the problem isn't with your network by testing your internet connection. Then, uninstall any other VPN software packages on your computer, as they may interfere with your connection. If that fails, reinstall the VPN software, and if the VPN still fails to connect, contact technical support.
• VPN is not hiding my IP address: If your VPN doesn't hide your IP address, check if the problem persists using a different protocol or server. However, if the problem persists, it may be time to look for another, more secure VPN provider.

Applications of VLAN and VPN

VLAN and VPN have multiple applications in different scenarios.

When to Use VLAN？

• Isolate traffic from different users: As we all know, VLAN separates a Lan into several small sections, and each section can work independently. By using, VLAN, you can meet that demand.
• Needs different types of devices to coexist: As mentioned above, VLAN can support small sections of net coverage, so for a director of an administrator to manage other types of devices, it is convenient and efficient to leverage VLAN. This will not only make the tasks more accessible but also form an integrated but separated space for each section.
• Connect multiple switches: In this case, you can use VLAN first. It is equivalent to creating a small network overlay underneath a large LAN where a portion of the devices can be separated to form a new network.

When to Use VPN？

• Protect privacy and keep anonymity from third-party: VPN transmits data through an encrypted tunnel, which means that all of your information, including your browsing activity, cannot be read and accessed by anyone.
• Access geographically restricted content: Turning on a VPN means bypassing geographic restrictions and unblocking content worldwide.
• Avoid bandwidth throttling: Some ISPs set bandwidth limits to encourage you to upgrade to more expensive packages that promise faster Internet speeds. If your VPN is always turned on, the ISP can't limit your Internet speed.

VLAN vs. VPN vs. Subnet vs. Tunnels: What's the Difference?

After learning about VLAN and VPN, two types may confuse users: subnet and tunnels. It is time to explain further the differences between VLAN, VPN, subnet, and tunnels.

What are subnet and tunnels?

A subnet is a segment of a more extensive network. More specifically, a subnet is a logical partitioning of an IP network into multiple smaller parts. Internet Protocol (IP) sends data from one computer to another over the Internet.

Tunnels involve encapsulating one network protocol within another to facilitate communication between networks using different protocols. It creates a "tunnel" through which data packets travel securely.

What are the differences between them?

Functionality and Purpose

• VLANs segment networks for efficient resource allocation.
• VPNs enable secure remote access and data transmission.
• Subnets enhance IP address management and network performance.
• Tunnels ensure secure data transmission and facilitate communication between networks.

Security and Privacy

• VLANs offer segmentation benefits but focus less on encryption.
• VPNs prioritize data privacy through encryption and authentication.
• Subnets indirectly improve security by limiting broadcast domains.
• Tunnels secure data during transmission, adding an extra layer of protection.

Scope and Implementation

• VLANs operate within a single network or broadcast domain.
• VPNs extend networks across public networks or the Internet.
• Subnets enhance internal network management within a single network.
• Tunnels facilitate secure communication between geographically distant networks.

VLAN vs. VXLAN: What Makes VXLAN Better?

VXLAN is an encapsulation protocol that provides data center connectivity by extending Layer 2 connectivity over the underlying Layer 3 network using tunneling. VXLAN is the most commonly used protocol in data centers for creating overlay networks on top of physical networks to enable virtual networks. Compared with VLAN, VXLAN has the following advantages:

• Support for Dynamic VN Transfer: This is important for continuity of service and efficient use of resources in the data center. Administrators can upgrade or maintain servers by moving virtual machines to another server without disrupting service or users knowing. It keeps the data center robust and reliable.
• Easy to configure and manage: VXLAN is a software-defined network (although vendors have developed ASICs for VXLAN) and works as an overlay to the underlying IP network. The network can be managed and monitored through a centralized controller.
• Better Scalability: Compared to VLANs, VXLANs are highly scalable, accommodating up to 16 million isolated networks; however, the number for VLANs is only 4094 VLANS. That is why it is easy to scale.
• Greater flexibility: VLAN is less flexible for a multi-tenant environment, whereas VxLAN is flexible and suitable for a multi-tenant environment.

FAQs

What is the difference between VLAN and VPN?

VPNs provide authorized users and employees with a secure connection to an organization's network. VLANs group geographically disparate devices to improve communication between devices and simplify how network administrators change the network infrastructure.

What is the difference between VLAN and VPN Reddit?

VPN creates a secure and private tunnel across a public network and lets you connect to a private network. VLAN logically segregates the network so that devices from 2 different geographical locations can be in the same network.

Does a VLAN need its subnet?

Each virtual LAN (VLAN) must use its unique IP subnet. Because VLANs are used to segment a LAN into logical networks, each logical network must have its unique IP address space, which improves network segmentation and security and allows you to apply different network policies to different VLANs.

How many IP addresses does a VLAN have?

Up to 32 IP addresses on the same VLAN. Up to 512 IP VLANs, i.e., VLANs for which IP addresses can be configured. Each IP address on a VLAN must be used for a separate subnet, whether it is on the same VLAN or a different VLAN.

Conclusion

VLAN and VPN are different types of networks we developed, and they are designed to meet demands in different situations. VLANs will fit the bill if you manage an organization and want to divide your existing LAN into smaller areas for better control. However, if you want to ensure that your company or private data is best protected, it is best to use a VPN. Please share it with your friends and leave comments about your thoughts.