Selecting VMPS Configuration Settings

The VLAN Membership Policy Server (VMPS) is a switch, such as a Catalyst 5000, that responds to a VLAN Query Protocol (VQP) request for a VLAN assignment for an end station. It dynamically assigns a VLAN to an access port. The VMPS must be configured before you configure a dynamic-access port for the connection to the end station. (For more information about configuring and troubleshooting the Catalyst 5000 switch as the VMPS, see the Catalyst 5000 Series Software Configuration Guide; for information on configuring dynamic-access ports, see Assigning and Viewing VLAN Membership.)

Initially, the dynamic-access port does not belong to a VLAN. No traffic is forwarded to or from this port. When the client receives the first packet from a new host on its dynamic-access port, it uses VQP to send the source MAC address to the VMPS. The VMPS provides the VLAN name to which this port must be assigned. The VMPS can also send an access denied or a port shutdown response if the VLAN is illegal on the port.

Caution: Dynamic-access ports are designed to work with end stations. Loss of connectivity can occur if you connect dynamic-access ports to switches or routers.

When you choose VLAN > VMPS, the VMPS Configuration window appears. Here you can view information about the VMPS configuration, set VMPS client parameter, configure a switch for dynamic VLAN membership, and remove a server from the list of designated VMPS servers.

Note: This feature is available for Catalyst 2900 XL, 2950, 3500 XL, and 3550 switches.