VLAN in a router - what is it for ?

[Mark Malone · Accepted solution]

Hi 2811 and other routers can actually come with layer 2 cards installed so even though its a router  by platform there is a switching card module installed giving you basic switching functions , obviously they cost extra , these ports operate same as any other layer 2 port in terms of configuration

example module is hwic-4esw

[SJ K]

Hi Reza, Mark,

Thanks and sorry for the late reply.

Then in that case,  for those routers with switch modules -> can the router route between the connected routes and the vlan interface ?

Regards,
Noob

[Reza Sharifi · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Yes, you can create a vlan and put a few switch ports in it and the router route for the vlan interface. Its just like a small layer-2 switch connected to the router but in this case its a module that gets inserted into the router.

HTH

[Reza Sharifi · Accepted solution]

Hi,

Have never used packet tracer and no sure, but if you see a regular Cisco router with vlan database, most likely that router has some sort of Ether-switch blade(4 ports, 8 ports or 16 ports) installed. See below.  This way the router can operate as both a switch and a router and so you don't have to purchase 2 different devices.

http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/interfaces-modules/high-speed-wan-interface-cards/product_data_sheet0900aecd8016bf0b.html

HTH