While the data routed between networks has its own inherent problems, much of the focus over the past decade, however, has turned toward how digital data moves and is managed within local networks. Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), to be specific, have become the darlings of the networking world.

• How do VLANs differ from standard switching?
• Are all hardware switches (focus on Cisco) VLAN capable?
• Is a VLAN capable switch more expensive than a standard switch?
• What criteria might an organization use when determining whether or not to deploy VLANs as part of their networking strategy?
• Are there circumstances where implementing a router solution instead of a VLAN could be justified on a local area network (LAN)? If so, what are those circumstances?
• Make sure you conduct research for your post- either using class content or from the Web, and make sure you cite your source(s).