Using genetic optimization and visual analysis tools for access schema design in virtual local area networks

The paper considers an approach to the design of a virtual local area network (VLAN) based on software tools for genetic optimization and visual analysis of VLAN access schema. Authors describe a formal statement of the problem of VLAN scheme optimization, which solution can improve the reliability and security of operation of corporate computer networks. The paper shows that the problem considered is related to one of the forms of Boolean Matrix Factorization and that it is NP-complete. A number of improvements were implemented in the proposed genetic algorithm, concerning the formation of initial population, kind of the fitness function, coding chromosomes, and operation of crossing and mutation. Developed software tools implement the genetic algorithm, create a visual representation of the solving problem progress and provide the assessment of the problem solution. Experimental results show high effectiveness of the proposed genetic algorithm.