Three ways of inter-vlan access in detail (with configuration steps)

Mar 25 , 2024 1523

In a computer network, a switch is a key network device used to connect and manage communications between different devices. The interfaces of a switch can be configured in different operating modes to meet the specific needs of the network. Typically, there are a total of 3 configuration modes that we use. Understanding and properly configuring these operating modes is critical to building an efficient and secure network.

Access Mode: In this mode, the interface is connected to only one end device, such as a computer or printer. The switch forwards incoming packets to the device connected to that interface and not to other interfaces. This mode is typically used to connect end devices to a local area network (LAN).

Trunk Mode: In trunk mode, an interface can connect to other switches or network devices and transmit data between multiple VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks). Trunk mode allows data from multiple VLANs to be transmitted over a single physical link and is therefore useful when connecting switches with different VLANs.

Hybrid Mode: Hybrid mode combines the characteristics of access mode and trunking mode. In this mode, an interface can connect to a single device (similar to access mode) or transmit data between multiple VLANs (similar to trunking mode). Promiscuous mode is useful in certain network environments, such as when you need to allow certain ports to connect to a single device, but also when you need to support data transfer across VLANs.

So, what is the configuration method of these three modes with vlan? NetDirect Communications engineers have compiled the following scenarios for you.

1. Trunk mode configuration method

[SW]vlan batch 2 3 //Create vlan

[SW]interface gigabitethernet 0/0/1

[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/1]port link-type trunk //Configure the interface type as trunk

[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/1]port trunk allow-pass vlan 2 to 10 //Allow vlan's 2 through 10 to pass

2. Access mode configuration

[SW]vlan batch 2 //Create vlan
[SW]interface gigabitethernet0/0/1
[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/1]port link-type access //Configure the interface type as access

[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/1]port access vlan 2 //Add the port to vlan2
[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/1]quit

3. Hybrid Mode Configuration Methods

[SW]vlan 2 //Create vlan
[SW]interface gigabitethernet0/0/2
[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/2]port link-type hybrid //Configure the interface type as hybrid
[SW-GigabitEthernet0/0/2]port hybrid untagged vlan 2 //Data for vlan2 is sent untagged

Each of the three operating modes of switch interfaces has its own characteristics and applicable scenarios. Administrators can configure switch interfaces according to the needs and topology of the network through these different operating modes to achieve the best performance and security.

In short, through the flexible use of access mode, trunking mode and promiscuous mode, you can better manage and optimize network resources and improve network availability and scalability. If you still need to know other questions about IT network hardware equipment, you can contact NetDirect Communications.