How do you configure a port to be part of a VLAN on a switch?

To configure a port to be part of a VLAN on a switch, the correct method involves using the command "switchport access vlan [VLAN_ID]." This command effectively assigns the specified VLAN ID to the port, allowing the switch to know that any traffic arriving on that port should be associated with the designated VLAN.

In the context of network switching, VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) segment the broadcast domain, enhancing both security and performance by isolating network traffic. By utilizing the command mentioned, the port is configured in access mode, which is typically used for end devices such as computers and printers, enabling them to communicate within the defined VLAN.

Alternative options do not achieve the purpose of adding the port to a VLAN. Assigning an IP address to the port is relevant for Layer 3 switching and does not relate to VLAN assignment on Layer 2 ports. Enabling the spanning tree protocol, while essential for preventing loops in the network topology, does not configure VLAN membership. Connecting the port to a main router involves routing capabilities rather than VLAN configuration, which is relevant to Layer 2 functions. Thus, using the "switchport access vlan [VLAN_ID]" command directly addresses the need to configure VLAN membership correctly.