35.1.1 Overview of Network Partitions

A network partition enables network consolidation to integrate networks that are built for each department and business unit into a single network. The following table and figure show the network consolidation that can be achieved with network partitions.

Table 35-1: Classification of network consolidation
Category	Description
Physical consolidation	Physically integrate devices and lines while leaving the network logically isolated.
Operation and administration consolidation	Integrate operation and administration by centrally managing the Layer 3 functions distributed on the network at one location.

Figure 35-1: Physical consolidation

Figure 35-2: Operation management consolidation

A network partition logically divides the network by VRF and VLAN and configures VPN. The advantages of deploying network partitions are shown in the following table.

Table 35-2: Advantages of network partitioning
Advantages	Description
Low cost	Physical integration of devices and lines enables you to build a network with fewer devices and lines and reduce initial installation costs. By centrally managing Layer 3 functionality at one location, you can reduce running costs.
Strong security	You can logically separate networks.
Easy network integration	Multiple networks can be physically integrated into a single network. IP addresses do not need to be changed even if IP addresses are duplicated because they are logically separated.
Power saving	Physical integration of devices and lines allows you to build eco-friendly networks.