In the realm of networking the term layer 3 switch or router is often used; both are seeing wide application in networks for data transmission. In general, the layer 3 switch joins hosts to create Local Area Networks (LANs) and routers link several LANs into wide-area networks (WANs).
It is possible to get confused about layer 3 switches vs routers because they have a lot in common because they both utilize identical routing protocols. They analyze packets that are received and take dynamic routing choices in accordance with the addresses of the source and destination within.
They also differ in terms of performance as well as flexibility, price, other aspects. Therefore, we’ll be able to discuss them in a way that is clear and help you make the best choice.
Layer 3 switch and router
Layer 3 Switch: Mix And Match Layer 2/3 Switching
The layer 3 switch which forwards traffic (frames) according to information from layer 3 (mainly via the mac-address). Layer 3 switch is able to support all features of switching, and it also includes basic routing capabilities to move between VLANs. Layer 3 switch was created as a method to enhance the efficiency of routing networks on huge networks.
In a layer 3 switch the layer forwarding process is carried out by specially-designed ASICs which are faster than routers, however they typically lack the capabilities of routers. As opposed to routers, the 3 switch will not experience delays in the network since it doesn’t need to go through more steps to get through a router. Check out dell powerconnect 2816 specs price online.
Since layer 3 switches have functions that are associated with layers 2, 3 switches, they are also referred to as a “multilayer switch” as well as certain 10GbE switches and Gigabit PoE switches are of this kind.
Layer 3 switch
Router: For Different Networks & Protocols
The Router is a common device that is used in small and home-based networks. It permits the communication between devices connected to it as well as the internet. The router is able to forward traffic (packets) in accordance with layer 3 information using an IP address.
This lets the network go through different Protocols. They also act as the primary security which protects the network from attack or invasion. In order to direct the packets to their destination the router evaluates the destination addresses of layer 3 for each packet, and then determines the best hop to follow it. This process is time-consuming, so every packet will experience delays due to this.
Basic router connection
The most fundamental characteristics of the layer 3 switch and router are described below:
Features
Layer 3 Switch
Router
Layer 3 of basic routing
Yes
Yes
Control of traffic
Yes
Yes
Support for WIC cards
No
Yes
Advanced routing features
No
Yes
Forwarding Architecture
Hardware-ASIC
Software-IOS
RMON assistance
Yes
No
Policy performance
High
Low
WAN support
No
Yes
Interfaces to the WAN
No
Yes
QoS offers
No
Yes
NAT
No
Yes
The capabilities of LAN
Yes
No
Layer 3 Switch Vs Router: Similarities and Differences
Similarities:
Layer 3 switches can be described as simultaneously a switch and router. It can be described as an Ethernet router that has multiple ports and a switch function. Layer 3 switches allow packet switching by examining each of their IP addresses as well as the MAC address.
The switches of layer 3 are capable of separating ports into distinct VLANs and also perform routes between the two. Similar to traditional routers, Layer 3 switches can be configured to support routing protocols , such as RIP, OSPF, and EIGRP. Check out emc vnx 5300 price online
Differences:
Hardware – The primary difference between layer 3 switches and router is in the hardware. The hardware in a layer 3 switch combines those of traditional switches and routers, enhancing some of the router’s software functions and integrated circuit hardware , allowing for greater performance for networks.
Furthermore, it is specifically designed for intranets, a layer3 switch typically does not have WAN ports, and has the same features that an older router typically has. This is why layer 3 switches are mostly used to enable switching between VLANs.
Interfaces – A further difference between the layer 3 switches versus a router is that the Layer 3 switch will be restricted in the interfaces it supports (usually only Ethernet and RJ45 and multimode or single-mode fiber).
However, a router can offer more options , including SDH SONET, E1/T1 and more. In addition, routers were devices that linked the LAN with the WAN and switches were the LAN devices.
Working Principle The Working Principle – Layer 3 switch examines the MAC address of the host that is being targeted and then sends the frame to the host that is receiving it.
The router uses the destination IP address, not its MAC address, which is why it generally offers more functions than simple packet routing like IP address assigning (DHCP) or firewall filtering.
Apart from the three main distinctions between layer 3 switch and router Other aspects are listed in the chart below to aid in separating layers 3 switches from router.
Attribute
Layer 3 Switch
Router
Scope
LAN to connect office data center, campus and office environment
WAN for campus and data center
Key Functionality
Routes that cross subnets or VLANs on campus LAN
The routes across various channels across WAN are routed and communicated by the router
Edge Technologies Support
Not supported
NAT, firewalling, tunneling, IPSec
Size of Routing Table
Table for routing is smaller table when compared to router
Significantly larger to allow multiple routes
Forwarding Decision
Forwarding is carried out by specially-trained ASICs
The software performs the operation.
Interface Support
Ethernet port (copper/fiber)
Ethernet ports (copper/fiber), interfaces like SONT, OC-N, T1/T3 etc.
Throughout
High throughput
Switches lower than Layer 3
Switching Capacity
High switching capacity
Switches lower than Layer 3
Cost
Low cost
High cost
Port Density
High
Low
Layer 3 Switch Vs Router: How to Choose?
One of the most common arguments regarding layer 3 switch and router is that there must be the need for a router, we should have a layer 3 switch. Actually, both are able to be used in different situations and situations. In light of the similarities and distinctions we’ve outlined, your choice will depend on the network’s design and what you’re seeking to accomplish.
For Layer 3 Switch:
Insufficient WAN capability, the use to layer-3 switches usually falls under intranet environments with an adequate amount of subnets and traffic. It is possible to justify one of the scenarios below:
Departments require the use of their own domains for broadcasting to ensure security or performance.
Connect to your Hub rooms, and make an option at layer 3 by providing more Ethernet interfaces to direct server form of connectivity over the router.
Connect your office to each other via layer 2 circuits through the ISP You can also direct terminate the link via Layer 3 switches and set up routing on it at same at the same time.
If you require more throughput and direct access, as well as inter-VLAN connectivity A layer 3 switch is your best option.
Network with lots of broadcasts that require more efficient VLANS.
For Router:
As WAN connections become more Ethernet dependent There is a growing tendency to replace layer 3 switches with routers. But, routers still have specific capabilities that the layer 3 switch can’t provide. It’s unalterable in these instances.
If you’re looking to connect to an ISP directly to offer internet, routers are designed specifically for this purpose.
If you’re looking to construct tunnels between offices, for instance to connect two offices using the public internet in a safer manner, a router could best meet the requirements.
If you’re a CE participant in MPLS configuration, then you will require an internet router.
Conclusion
When deciding between the layer 3 switch and router, it is essential be aware of the needs of your company prior to making your choice In general it is recommended to purchase a router if the majority of the time, your device handles routing, however it is possible that a layer 3 switch might work better if you require more ports, higher performance on the network and segmentation of VLANs.
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