UC Davis Information & Educational Technology

Multi-VLAN Data Feature

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Multi-VLAN Data Feature

Multi-VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a potentially budget saving data network feature that allows multiple VLANs (up to 6 VLANs) to be configured for a single network connection. Before the Multi-VLAN feature was available, firewalls and servers that spanned multiple VLANs required a separate network connection for each VLAN. By using Multi-VLAN, campus departments can decrease the number of network connections (and the associated costs) needed to support servers and firewalls that span multiple VLANs.


Aspects of the Multi-VLAN Feature

  • Order up to 6 VLANs for a single data connection
  • Reduce the number of NAMs required for firewalls and servers
  • Increase performance and manageability of servers and firewalls
  • The Multi-VLAN feature cannot be used with Wireless Access Points (WAPs)

What is a VLAN?

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that covers a small physical area. It is usually connected to localized routers and computing resources to send and receive network messages. A Virtual Local Area Network facilitates the same type of "localized" routing and resource-sharing capability for any computer on the campus network even if they are not located in the same physical location. The benefits of VLAN technology include increased performance, improved manageability and increased security.

The term "tag" or "VLAN tag" is used to describe the devices employed by VLAN technology. The IEEE 802.1Q protocol describes "VLAN tagging" - the use of "tags" as unique identifiers in the MAC address header. Packets with this extra tag are routed to the correct VLAN destination through the campus core network. If a network device such as a server or firewall must interpret network traffic from several (up to 6) VLANs to fulfill its function, it can be connected to a single Multi-VLAN-enabled NAM and receive packets destined for 6 VLANs.


How much does Multi-VLAN cost?

Initial Charges
Multi-VLAN Configuration Charge$91.00*
Monthly Recurring Charges
Multi-VLAN Monthly Charge$6.00**
Reconfiguration Charges
Change/Modify MultiVLAN Configuration$25.00

* Initial Configuration Charge is in addition to standard NAM activation/installation rate.
** Monthly Recurring Charge is in addition to standard NAM service rate.


How to Order Multi-VLAN feature

If your department is interested in ordering Multi-VLAN, please contact your department's ATR (Authorized Telecommunications Representative) to start the data feature order process. During this process, your ATR will be asked to agree to a Service Level Agreement (SLA) which details the responsibilities and charges associated with Multi-VLAN. The Multi-VLAN feature has been incorporated into all of our data service request forms. ATRs can request a Multi-VLAN NAM configuration via the following four CR service request forms:

  1. Change VLAN: For a single NAM
  2. Install New Data NAM
  3. Firewall Configuration
  4. Connect Existing Data NAM