- Virtual network
A virtual network provides the virtual links between nodes in a physical
computer network to form a virtual network. The implementation of these virtual links may or may not correspond to physical connections between nodes.The terms
VLAN ,VPN , andVPLS are all used to describe different types of virtual networks.VLANs (Virtual LANs) are created by partitioning a
LAN (Local Area Network) into multiple subnets using a VLAN ID. The partitioned network can be on a single router, can be on multiple routers that would otherwise form a single network, or can be on a VPN.A VPN (Virtual Private Network) consists of multiple remote end-points (typically routers, VPN gateways of software clients) joined by some sort of tunnel over another network, usually a third party network. Two such end points constitute a 'Point to Point Virtual Private Network' (or a PTP VPN). Connecting more than two end points by putting in place a mesh of tunnels creates a 'Multipoint VPN'.
A VPLS (Virtual Private LAN Service) is a specific type of Multipoint VPN. VPLS are divided into Transparent LAN Services (TLS) and Ethernet Virtual Connection Services. A TLS sends what it receives, so it provides geographic separation, but not VLAN subnetting. An EVCS adds a VLAN ID, so it provides geographic separation and VLAN subnetting.
See also
*
Overlay network
*Network virtualization
*Virtual circuit References
* [http://www2.rad.com/networks/2006/vpls/main.htm RAD VPLS Tutorial]
* [http://www.juniper.net/techpubs/software/junos/junos83/swconfig83-vpns/id-10066935.html#id-10066935 Types of VPNs]-----
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