Episode 87: Layer 3 Switches — When a Switch Becomes a Router

This episode explains Layer 3 switches, which combine the high-speed switching of Layer 2 with the routing capabilities of Layer 3. These devices can forward packets based on IP addresses, supporting inter-VLAN routing and more advanced network segmentation. The exam requires you to understand when and why a Layer 3 switch is used instead of a traditional router.

Examples include deploying Layer 3 switches in large campus networks where high-speed routing between VLANs is required. Troubleshooting considerations include verifying routing tables, ensuring VLAN interfaces are configured correctly, and identifying asymmetric routing problems. By recognizing the capabilities of Layer 3 switches, you’ll be able to differentiate them from routers and switches on the exam and apply them in complex enterprise designs. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your certification path.