Networking
Native VLAN
Added: July 9, 2026
Definition
- Native VLAN is the VLAN used for untagged Ethernet frames on a trunk port.
- Its role is to let devices exchange traffic that does not contain an 802.1Q VLAN tag. It works only on trunk links between switches (or similar devices).
What Problem It Solves
- Some devices or protocols send frames without VLAN tags.
- The Native VLAN tells the receiving switch which VLAN those untagged frames belong to.
What Happens If Not Used
Untagged traffic may be dropped or placed into the wrong VLAN, causing communication problems.
Easy Wording
The Native VLAN is the "default lane" for traffic that arrives without a VLAN label.
Layman Example
Imagine packages without department stickers. The warehouse automatically sends them to the "General" department.
Technical Example
Switch A → Trunk Link → Switch B
- An untagged frame leaves Switch A.
- The trunk carries it.
- Switch B receives it and places it into the configured Native VLAN.
Limitation: It only handles untagged traffic. Tagged traffic still needs VLAN IDs inside the 802.1Q tag.
