What is Native VLAN?
Native VLAN, also known as the default VLAN or untagged VLAN, is a concept in computer networking that refers to the default VLAN used for untagged network traffic on a trunk port. To understand the concept of Native VLAN, let’s break it down further.
On a network, VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) are used to logically separate devices into different broadcast domains, thus improving network efficiency and security. VLANs allow network administrators to segment the network into smaller, more manageable groups.
When VLANs are implemented, network devices need a way to identify which VLAN a specific frame of network traffic belongs to. This is done through the use of VLAN tags, which are added to network frames to indicate the VLAN membership.
However, there are cases where network devices don’t support VLAN tags or are configured incorrectly. In such situations, the network traffic is considered untagged and needs to be handled differently. This is where Native VLAN comes into play.
The Native VLAN is the VLAN that is configured as untagged on a trunk port. A trunk port is a network port that carries traffic for multiple VLANs. When untagged network traffic is received on a trunk port, it is assumed to belong to the Native VLAN.
The Native VLAN allows for the transmission of untagged network traffic between switches, access points, and other network devices that are not VLAN-aware. It acts as a default VLAN for untagged traffic and is assigned a specific VLAN ID.
It’s worth noting that the selection of the Native VLAN can have security implications. By default, many switches assign VLAN 1 as the Native VLAN, which is also the default VLAN for many network devices. Since VLAN 1 is well-known, it can be vulnerable to unauthorized access and attacks.
To mitigate these security risks, it is recommended to change the Native VLAN to a different VLAN ID other than VLAN 1. This practice adds an extra layer of security to the network infrastructure.
In summary, the Native VLAN is the default VLAN used for untagged network traffic on a trunk port. It allows for the transmission of untagged frames and assists in interconnecting VLAN-aware and non-VLAN-aware devices. By understanding the concept of Native VLAN, network administrators can effectively manage VLAN traffic and enhance network security.
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