VLAN approach that has been specifically developed for switched communications. Frame tagging places a unique identifier in the header of each frame as it is forwarded throughout the network backbone. The identifier is recognized and examined by each switch prior to any broadcasts or transmissions to other switches, routers, or end-station devices. When the frame exits the network backbone, the switch removes the identifier before the frame is transmitted to the target end station. Frame identification functions at Layer 2 and requires little processing or administrative overhead.