Network segmentation

Network segmentation in computer networking is the act or profession of splitting a computer network into subnetworks, each being a network segment or network layer. Advantages of such splitting are primarily for boosting performance and improving security.

Advantages

• reduced congestion: Improved performance is achieved because on a segmented network there are fewer hosts per subnetwork, thus minimizing local traffic.
• improved security: Broadcasts will be contained to local network. Internal network structure will not be visible from outside.
• containing network problems: Limiting the effect of local failures on other parts of network.

See also

• Bridging (networking)
• Collision domain
• Network switch
• Router (computing)