In a simple home network, everything connects to the same Wi-Fi. Your laptop, your printer, your smart thermostat, and your kid's iPad can all "see" each other. This is a "Flat Network."
In a business, a Flat Network is a disaster waiting to happen. Why? Because the insecure IoT coffee maker in the breakroom should not have network access to your Financial Server.
What is a VLAN?
A Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) allows us to chop one physical network switch into multiple, isolated logic networks.
Recommended Segments for SMBs
- VLAN 10 (Data): Staff Desktops/Laptops. High security.
- VLAN 20 (Voice): VoIP Phones. Prioritized traffic (QoS).
- VLAN 30 (Guest): Visitors. Internet access ONLY. Cannot touch any other device.
- VLAN 40 (IoT): Printers, Cameras, Thermostats. Weak security devices kept in "jail."
- VLAN 99 (Management): Network switches and firewalls. only Accessible by IT admins.
Limiting the "Blast Radius"
Imagine a ransomware virus infects a receptionist's laptop (VLAN 10). The virus scans the network for other victims.
- Flat Network: It finds the Server, the Backup NAS, and the security cameras. It encrypts everything. Game over.
- Segmented Network: It scans and hits the "wall" of the VLAN. It cannot see the Server (if properly firewalled) or the Cameras. The infection is contained to VLAN 10.
Zero Trust Principles
Segmentation is the first step toward Zero Trust. The philosophy is: "Just because you are inside the building doesn't mean you are trusted."
Is your network wide open? ACE IT Solutions designs secure, segmented network architectures using Cisco, Ubiquiti, and Fortinet gear.
Ready to take the next step?
A 'flat' network is a playground for lateral movement. We can help you design a secure, segmented architecture that uses VLANs to isolate sensitive data and minimize your risk profile across your whole office.