VLANs benefit from trunking because it allows multiple VLANs to be transmitted over a single physical link between switches, optimizing bandwidth usage and reducing the number of required connections. Trunking ensures that traffic from different VLANs remains segregated while still being able to traverse the same network infrastructure. This capability enhances network scalability, simplifies management, and improves efficiency by minimizing the number of physical links needed for inter-VLAN communication.
The common types of trunking are; VLAN trunking, LTR trunking systems, EDACS trunking systems, Motorola trunking tystems.
VLAN
What is the purpose of VLAN trunking
One significant security risk for VLAN trunking is the possibility of VLAN hopping attacks, where an attacker can send packets to a VLAN they do not belong to by manipulating the trunking protocol. This can happen through techniques like double tagging, where the attacker places a packet with two VLAN tags, allowing it to traverse trunk links and reach unauthorized VLANs. Proper configuration of VLANs, including using dynamic trunking protocols securely and implementing access control lists, is essential to mitigate these risks.
vlan trunking protocols. eg :802.1q ,ISL
VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) supports two main trunking protocols: IEEE 802.1Q and Cisco's proprietary ISL (Inter-Switch Link). IEEE 802.1Q is the industry standard for VLAN tagging, while ISL is specific to Cisco devices. VTP uses these protocols to manage and propagate VLAN information across a network of switches.
Trunking
Virtual Trunking Protocol (VTP) is a Cisco proprietary protocol used in switched networks to manage VLAN configurations across multiple switches. It allows switches to share VLAN information, ensuring consistency in VLAN configuration throughout the network. VTP reduces the need for manual VLAN configuration on each switch, thereby simplifying network management and reducing the risk of errors. It operates in different modes, including server, client, and transparent, each with specific roles in VLAN information dissemination.
The frames are assigned to the native VLAN.
One sub-interface per VLANA compatible trunking protocol encapsulation for each sub-interfaceOne IP network or sub-network for each sub-interface
In VLAN Trunking Protocol (VTP), the revision number is part of the VTP advertisement and is used to determine the most recent VLAN configuration. It is included in the VTP header, which is sent out in VTP messages. The revision number increments each time a VLAN configuration change is made, allowing devices to identify the latest configuration and synchronize their VLAN databases accordingly.
To prevent VLAN hopping attacks, it is essential to implement best practices such as disabling unused switch ports and setting them to an "inactive" state. Additionally, configuring VLAN trunking protocols properly and using port security to limit the number of MAC addresses per port can significantly reduce the risk. Implementing Access Control Lists (ACLs) to restrict traffic between VLANs and ensuring that dynamic trunking protocol (DTP) is disabled on trunk ports further enhances security. Regularly monitoring network traffic for anomalies can also help detect and mitigate potential VLAN hopping attempts.