What is the purpose of a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)?

A VLAN, or Virtual Local Area Network, serves primarily to separate network traffic, which enhances both security and performance. By segmenting a network into different VLANs, devices in one VLAN can communicate with each other while being isolated from devices in other VLANs. This isolation is beneficial for security, as it reduces the risk of unauthorized access from other segments of the network. Additionally, separating traffic can optimize performance by limiting broadcast traffic and reducing congestion, which is particularly valuable in larger networks.

While there is a logical element to why a VLAN might seem related to connecting physical networks, that aspect is more accurately covered by other networking solutions like bridging or routing. VLANs operate within the same physical network infrastructure but create independent logical networks. This purity of logical separation is crucial for maintaining clear traffic management and security protocols. Thus, the main function of a VLAN revolves around traffic separation, making the chosen answer the most accurate descriptor of its purpose.