VLANit

VLANit is a network management tool designed to simplify planning, provisioning, and monitoring of VLANs in multi-vendor Ethernet networks. It provides a modeling environment to design new VLAN segments, assign VLAN IDs, and define tagging and trunking rules, complemented by a policy engine for security and access control.

Key features include VLAN modeling with topology maps, automated generation of device configurations, and policy-based segmentation. It supports auditing and change tracking, multi-vendor device connectivity through modular connectors, and bulk import/export of definitions in YAML or JSON. The tool emphasizes a vendor-agnostic approach, enabling consistent VLAN design across switches from different vendors.

The architecture of VLANit typically comprises a modeling server, a configuration generator, and device connectors. The modeling server stores VLAN definitions and network policies; the configuration generator produces vendor-specific configuration snippets from these definitions; device connectors push configurations via SSH, NETCONF, RESTCONF, or vendor APIs. A monitoring component can collect statistics, track changes, and raise alerts. Access control and versioning are standard, with role-based permissions and history of modifications.

Deployment options range from on-premises installations to private or public cloud environments. VLANit is designed to integrate with existing network management stacks, offering API access for orchestration and automation workflows. It is commonly used in campus, data center, and multi-tenant networks to streamline VLAN design, reduce human error, and improve consistency across devices.

See also: Virtual LAN, network management software, network automation.