I'm new to the IT world and have been trying to figure out my network setup. I have a Unifi Cloud Key and a Layer-2 switch that isn't from Unifi at my location. I recently purchased a Unifi Gateway Lite and a Ubiquiti Pro Max (which is a Layer-3 switch) to set up multiple subnets and a firewall. I thought I needed a Layer-3 switch to configure multiple subnets on a single switch, but now I'm realizing that might not be the case. So, does the Gateway Lite handle inter-VLAN routing instead of the switch?
5 Answers
You don't have to keep the Layer-3 switch if you're only using the Gateway for routing, but it could still be beneficial for future needs or if your setup grows. It's ultimately up to you whether to exchange it or not, but it might help to keep it for flexibility.
Remember, VLANs operate at Layer 2, so even a Layer-2 switch can manage them. As for routing, if you're routing through the Gateway, your Layer-3 switch can still function as a regular switch and forward traffic without any issues. It really depends on your network requirements!
You don't necessarily need a Layer-3 switch for routing; it's true that the Unifi Gateway Lite can handle inter-VLAN routing. If you're using it, you can manage the VLANs through the Gateway instead. So yes, you were right in thinking that you might not need the Layer-3 switch for that aspect.
Just to add, if you’re routing through the Gateway, you can still trunk all VLANs from your Layer-2 switch to the Gateway for everything to work smoothly!
Using the Gateway for routing is a solid choice. It provides better policy management and traffic inspection compared to an L3 switch. If you're primarily focused on separating traffic for security, the Gateway might serve you better than relying on an L3 switch.
Different setups can work well, depending on what you're looking for. In your case, if you’re mostly using it for basic traffic routing, the Gateway will do just fine! If you ever need more advanced options, having that Layer-3 switch around isn't a bad idea either!
Thanks for the advice! That's what I was wondering. I just want to be sure I'm getting it right.