Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of VLAN segmentation in a network?

1. To increase the number of broadcast domains

2. To reduce network complexity

3. To enhance performance by limiting broadcast traffic

4. To provide physical separation of devices

The correct answer is: To enhance performance by limiting broadcast traffic

The primary purpose of VLAN segmentation in a network is to enhance performance by limiting broadcast traffic. When VLANs are implemented, each VLAN creates a separate broadcast domain. This means that broadcast packets sent by devices within one VLAN do not propagate to devices in other VLANs. As a result, this segmentation helps to reduce the volume of broadcast traffic that reaches all devices on a network, which can significantly enhance overall network performance, especially in environments with many devices communicating frequently. This selective communication reduces unnecessary data transmission, which can lead to improved bandwidth usage and decreased latency. By effectively managing broadcast traffic, VLANs can also mitigate issues related to broadcast storms, where excessive broadcasts can degrade network performance. Other options, while valid considerations in networking, do not capture the primary objective of VLAN segmentation as directly. Increasing the number of broadcast domains allows for improved traffic management, but the core benefit is more about controlling broadcast traffic rather than merely increasing domains. Reducing network complexity and providing physical separation, while important, are secondary effects of VLAN implementation rather than the primary purpose.