Version 3.1 SP2 Reference Guide - Extreme Networks

10CHAPTERManaging and MonitoringVMANs (PBNs)This chapter describes how to use Ridgeline for:●●Configuring VMANs using Ridgeline’s network resource provisioning featureViewing information about VMANs configured on devices managed by RidgelineIt contains the following sections:● “Overview of VMANs” on page 179● “Configuring VMANs” on page 180● “Viewing VMAN Information” on page 190● “Displaying VMAN Details” on page 192Overview of VMANsVirtual Metropolitan Area Networks (VMANs), which are also known as Provider Bridge Networks(PBNs), are defined by the IEEE 802.1ad standard, which is an amendment to the IEEE 802.1Q VLANstandard. Metropolitan area network (MAN) service providers can use a VMAN to carry VLAN trafficfrom multiple customers across a common Ethernet network. A VMAN uses Provider Bridges (PBs) tocreate a Layer 2 network that supports VMAN traffic. VMAN technology is sometimes referred to asVLAN stacking or Q-in-Q.VMANs enable a service provider to offer the equivalent of separate and independent virtual bridgedLANs to multiple customers over the provider’s bridged network.NOTEThe “VMAN” term is an Extreme Networks term that became familiar to Extreme Networks customersbefore the PBN standard was complete. The VMAN term is used in Ridgeline and also in this book to supportcustomers who are familiar with this term. The PBN term is also used in this guide to establish the relationshipbetween this industry standard technology and the Extreme Networks VMAN feature.For a more detailed explanation of VMANs, see the ExtremeXOS Concepts and Solutions Guide.Ridgeline’s network resource provisioning feature allows you to create new VMANs and modifyexisting VMANs in your network. Ridgeline can display detailed information about VMANs inNetwork Views tables and maps.Ridgeline Reference Guide179