VLAN
VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a networking concept that logically segments a physical network into multiple isolated broadcast domains, allowing devices to be grouped together based on function, department, or security requirements rather than physical location. It operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, enabling network administrators to improve security, reduce broadcast traffic, and simplify network management by creating virtual networks within a single physical infrastructure.
Developers should learn VLANs when working on network-dependent applications, cloud infrastructure, or system administration tasks to enhance security by isolating sensitive data, optimize performance by minimizing broadcast storms, and facilitate scalability in enterprise environments. It is crucial for implementing network segmentation in data centers, virtualized environments, and IoT deployments to ensure compliance and efficient resource allocation.