A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) allows network administrators to segment a physical network into multiple logical networks, enabling different groups of devices to communicate as if they were on their own separate networks, even if they are connected to the same physical infrastructure. This segmentation enhances security, improves performance, and allows for more efficient management of the network.
In contrast, a WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) refers specifically to a wireless network that connects devices using wireless communication (such as Wi-Fi), regardless of whether those devices are part of the same VLAN or not.
In summary, the main difference is that a VLAN allows for the segmentation and organization of devices into their own virtual networks, while WLAN describes the wireless connectivity aspect of the network.