VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) segmentation is a technology used to logically partition a single physical network into multiple, distinct broadcast domains. In a unified cloud storage environment, this allows administrators to group servers and storage resources into separate virtual networks. For instance, servers handling sensitive patient records can be placed in one VLAN, while those with administrative data are in another. Access Control Lists (ACLs) and routing policies can then be applied to strictly control or prevent traffic between these VLANs, effectively separating access to the different data types without requiring separate physical network infrastructure.

A. Screened subnet: This is a perimeter network (DMZ) designed to separate an internal network from an untrusted, external network, not for segmenting data types internally.

C. Zero trust zone: This is a strategic security model or architecture, not a specific technology for network segmentation. VLANs can be a tool used to implement a zero-trust model.

D. An intranet: This refers to the entire private, internal network of an organization, not the method used to create logical separations within it.

1. Cisco Systems

Inc.

"Virtual LANs (VLANs)

" Internetworking Technology Handbook. In Chapter 50

the document states

"VLANs logically segment a LAN into different broadcast domains... VLANs provide a mechanism to partition a single switched network so that traffic is contained within that partition." This directly supports the use of VLANs for logical separation.

2. Stallings

W. (2016). Foundations of Modern Networking: SDN

NFV

and Cloud Computing. Pearson Education

Inc. In Chapter 6.3

"Virtual LANs (VLANs)

" it is explained that "The logical separation of devices provides a degree of security. Departments can be separated into their own VLANs so that they cannot directly communicate with each other." This aligns with separating patient and administrative data access.

3. Stanford University

CS144: Introduction to Computer Networking

Fall 2013

Lecture 10 - "Switching." The lecture notes describe VLANs as a mechanism where "a single physical switch can be partitioned into multiple 'virtual' switches

" which is the core concept required to solve the problem in the question.