What is one benefit of VXLAN over traditional VLANs?

VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) significantly enhances network scalability and flexibility, particularly in large data centers and cloud environments. One of the primary benefits of VXLAN over traditional VLANs is its ability to better utilize available network paths. VXLAN addresses some of the limitations of standard VLANs, such as their inherent scalability issues, which is often constrained by the maximum number of VLANs allowed (4096) due to the 12-bit VLAN ID.

VXLAN uses a 24-bit segment ID, known as the VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI), allowing for millions of unique identifiers. This expanded addressing capability enables greater segmentation and isolation for tenant networks in multi-tenant environments. Consequently, with more segments available, traffic can be distributed across a wider array of network paths, which optimizes load balancing and overall network performance.

Moreover, VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames within Layer 4 UDP packets. This encapsulation allows for the traversing of Layer 3 networks and enables more efficient routing of traffic, especially across large distances or across multiple data centers. It also facilitates better traffic engineering and optimization of available paths, resulting in improved utilization of the overall network infrastructure, enhancing reliability and performance.

This ability to maximize the use of network resources