VLAN Trunking

From PFSenseDocs

Contents 1 Summary 2 Definitions 3 Creating VLANs 4 Creating a vlan trunk

Summary

This article will give a brief overview on VLANs and VLAN trunking to be used in pfSense.

There is a lot more detail on VLANs, security issues with VLANs, pfSense VLAN configuration, VLAN switch configuration, and more in pfSense: The Definitive Guide.

Definitions

VLANs are virtual LAN segments of a managed switch, and when pfSense is plugged into a trunk port it can utilize VLANs to have multiple virtual interfaces, one for each available VLAN. In this manner, you can have pfSense talk to a large number of networks without the need for more physical interfaces.

In pfSense, you must create a new VLAN under Interfaces > (assign), on the VLANs tab. After creating the VLAN interface, it can be assigned just like any other interface.

• Common definitions of a VLAN – Google Definition for "vlan"
• Common definitions of VLAN trunking - trunking protocol Google Definition for "vlan trunking protocol"
• For an explanation on how VLAN trunking works go to Howstuffworks

Creating VLANs

• Connect to the managed switch using a console cable and terminal client.

• Create the relevant amount of vlans required and commit the changes made to the managed switch.
• An example of creating a VLAN

Switch>enable
Switch#vlan database
Switch(vlan)#vlan 10

• View the vlans created

Creating a vlan trunk

• Use the switch management interface to create the trunk.
• An example of creating a VLAN trunk using the management interface.

Switch#configure terminal
Switch(config)#interface fastEthernet 0/1
Switch(config-if)#switchport mode trunk
Switch(config-if)#switchport trunk encapsulation dot1q
Switch#show interface fastEthernet 0/1 switchport

• View the VLAN trunk created.

See also HOWTO setup vlans with pfSense