Final answer:
VLAN tagging is a method used in computer networks to manage different virtual LANs. While it can impact network performance, the effect is usually minimal and necessary for network security and efficiency.
Step-by-step explanation:
VLAN tagging, or Virtual LAN tagging, is a method used in computer networks to identify and manage different virtual LANs.
It involves adding additional information, known as tags, to the Ethernet frames to indicate which VLAN the frame belongs to. This process can impact network performance, but the extent of the impact depends on various factors.
When VLAN tagging is used, the network devices need to examine the tags in the Ethernet frames, which requires additional processing time. In large networks with high amounts of VLAN traffic, this can lead to a slight decrease in performance. However, in most cases, the performance impact is negligible and does not significantly affect network throughput and latency.
It's important to note that VLAN tagging is necessary for segregating network traffic and improving network security and efficiency. Without VLAN tagging, all traffic would be broadcasted to all devices on the network, resulting in decreased performance due to excessive network congestion.