4.2 VLAN Types
4.2.4 Establishing VLAN memberships

The two common approaches to assigning VLAN membership are as follows:

  • Static VLANs - This method is also referred to as port-based membership. Static VLAN assignments are created by assigning ports to a VLAN. As a device enters the network, the device automatically assumes the VLAN of the port. If the user changes ports and needs access to the same VLAN, the network administrator must manually make a port-to-VLAN assignment for the new connection. An example of this is shown in Figure .

  • Dynamic VLANs - Dynamic VLANs are created through the use of software packages such as CiscoWorks 2000. With a VLAN Management Policy Server (VMPS), you can assign switch ports to VLANs dynamically based on the source MAC address of the device connected to the port. Dynamic VLANs currently allow for membership based on the MAC address of the device. As a device enters the network, the device queries a database for VLAN membership. An example of this is shown in Figure .