I'm new to IT and trying to wrap my head around setting up multiple subnets with my Unifi Cloud Key and a Layer-2 switch at one location. I recently got a Unifi Gateway Lite and a Ubiquiti Pro Max (Layer-3) switch, thinking I needed the Layer-3 switch to configure multiple subnets. Now I'm starting to wonder if that was a mistake. Can someone clarify if the Gateway Lite handles inter-VLAN routing instead of the switch?
2 Answers
You're on the right track! If your Layer-3 switch can handle routing, that's great, but you don't need it to implement VLANs. The Unifi Gateway Lite can definitely manage inter-VLAN routing for you. Essentially, a Layer-2 switch can carry VLANs, and routing can be done at the gateway. This is often referred to as 'router on a stick', where you'd trunk all VLANs to the Gateway using a single interface.
Using the Gateway Lite for routing your VLANs is a solid choice. It gives you better policy control and traffic management than relying solely on a switch. While the Layer-3 switch can be a nice addition, it's not strictly necessary if you're handling routing through the gateway.
Can I turn off the routing on the Layer-3 switch? I want to avoid conflicts with the gateway.