Access ports play an important role in network switch configurations, especially for managing VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks). They connect devices to specific VLANs, helping to separate traffic and improve security in both enterprise and small office networks. Access ports keep communication organized and efficient. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This guide will explain everything you need to know about access ports, including how they work and their uses in modern networks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An access port is a type of switch port that lets untagged traffic move between end devices and the network. It\u2019s assigned to one VLAN, making sure the traffic from the connected device stays within that specific VLAN. Access ports work at Layer 2 of the OSI model, which handles data link layer functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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While access ports are designed for end devices, such as PCs or printers, trunk ports connect switches together and carry traffic for multiple VLANs using VLAN tagging<\/a> (based on the 802.1Q standard). The distinction lies in their purpose:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Access ports handle untagged traffic, meaning the data packets sent through them don\u2019t have VLAN tags. The switch automatically assigns this traffic to the VLAN configured for the port. This makes it easier for devices that don\u2019t support VLAN tagging to communicate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Access ports streamline communication by associating each connected device with a specific VLAN. Here\u2019s how they work:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To configure an access port on a VLAN (e.g., VLAN 10):<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“`<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
interface GigabitEthernet0\/1<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
switchport mode access<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
switchport access vlan 10<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
no shutdown<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
“`<\/code><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This sets the port into access mode, assigns it to VLAN 10, and activates the port.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features of Access Ports<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n