How does a VLAN improve network efficiency?

A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) improves network efficiency primarily by segmenting networks. This segmentation helps to reduce broadcast traffic, which is crucial because broadcasts can consume significant bandwidth and slow down network performance. When a network is divided into smaller, more manageable segments through VLANs, broadcasts are limited to the devices within that specific VLAN, reducing the overall broadcast domain size. This allows for more efficient use of network resources, as devices can communicate within their VLAN without unnecessary interference from broadcasts beyond their segment.

Additionally, VLANs enhance security by isolating sensitive data and devices from the rest of the network. By creating these logical separations, organizations can control traffic flow and limit access based on specific policies, ensuring that sensitive information is only accessible to authorized users within the designated VLAN.

In contrast, while increasing bandwidth available to each device might be beneficial, VLANs do not inherently increase bandwidth; they manage how that bandwidth is utilized. Connecting multiple networks together isn’t the primary function of a VLAN; that role is typically played by routers or layer 3 switches. Similarly, while VLANs can contribute to simplified wiring by allowing multiple logical networks to operate over the same physical infrastructure, this is not their primary advantage concerning efficiency. The focus of VLANs is on