Layer 2 vs. Layer 3 Networks: The Pros and Cons

In the world of networking, there are different types of network models that exist. The two most common ones are layer 2 and layer 3 networks. Depending on the business’s needs, one might be more beneficial than the other. Here, we will explore the pros and cons of layer 2 vs. layer 3 networks.
Layer 2 vs. Layer 3: Which To Choose?
Layer 2 networks are known as Point to Point protocols (PTPs). These are typically used for connecting two computers or devices within the same network. The two computers or devices share a single point where the data is sent and received. Layer 2 networks are usually considered more stable compared to layer 3 networks. As a result, it is generally easier to move data at high speeds.
On the other hand, layer 3 networks are called Wide Area Networks (WANs).

Layer 2 vs layer 3 vlan: layer 2 switches can create virtual LANs while layer 3 switches cannot

. They both can do this with the help of layer 2 interfaces.
Layer 2 vs Layer 3: Pros and Cons
Here is a list of pros and cons of both layer 2 and layer 3 networks.
Pros:
– Both networks have their own benefits. Layer 2 networks are ideal for connecting devices within the same LAN. It provides better performance than layer 3 networks.
– Both networks are more secure than layer 3 networks. Since they are based on the same protocols, they are less prone to attacks.
Cons:
– Layer 2 networks require more network equipment compared to Layer 3 networks.

Layer 2 vs layer 3 switch unifi: layer 2 switches are used to connect devices on the same LAN while layer 3 switches are used to connect different LANs

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Layer 2 vs layer 3: Hardware requirements
The two most common types of networks are Layer 2 and Layer 3. In some cases, there is a need for both. Let us take a look at the hardware requirements to understand which one is better.
Layer 2 vs layer 3: Hardware requirements
Layer 2 networks are typically used for connecting two computers or devices within the same network. The two computers or devices share a single point where the data is sent and received. Layer 2 networks are typically more stable compared to layer 3 networks. As a result, it is generally easier to move data at high speeds.
On the other hand, layer 3 networks are called Wide Area Networks (WANs).

In computer networking, a virtual LAN (VLAN) is a local area network (LAN) where network segments are logically segmented by function, project, or application, instead of being physically separated. A VLAN has the same attributes as a physical LAN, but it allows for end stations to be grouped together even if they are not on the same network switch.

A layer 2 switch is a network switch that operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. A layer 2 switch is also sometimes called a multiport bridge or a MAC bridge. A layer 2 switch uses hardware addresses to process and forward data at the data link layer.

A layer 3 switch is a network switch that can perform the routing function in addition to switching Ethernet frames. A layer 3 switch is also sometimes called a multilayer switch or a router switch. A layer 3 switch uses IP addresses to process and forward data at the network layer.