UniFi Layer 3 switches enhance network scalability by routing traffic between VLANs at the switch level, reducing latency and offloading work from primary routers. They support static routing and DHCP services but rely on external gateways for internet access. These switches are ideal for complex, segmented networks needing higher efficiency and security.
How Do UniFi Layer 3 Switches Differ from Traditional Layer 2 Switches?
UniFi Layer 3 switches operate at both Layer 2 and Layer 3 of the OSI model, forwarding traffic using MAC addresses and making routing decisions based on IP addresses. Unlike traditional Layer 2 switches that only switch frames within local VLANs, Layer 3 switches enable inter-VLAN routing internally, reducing reliance on external routers for traffic between VLANs.
Layer 3 switching provides hardware-accelerated routing to significantly improve network throughput and reduce latency in large, segmented networks.
What Models of UniFi Layer 3 Switches Are Available and What Are Their Features?
UniFi offers several Layer 3-capable switch series:
| Series | Example Model | Ports | Uplinks | PoE Capability | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro Max | Pro Max 48 PoE | 48 ports (1GbE + 2.5GbE) | 2.5 GbE ports | PoE++ | High-density, advanced Etherlighting™ tech |
| Pro | Pro 48 PoE | 48 ports (1GbE) | 10G SFP+ uplinks | PoE++ | Fully managed, 10G uplinks |
| Pro 24 | 24 ports | 10G SFP+ uplinks | No PoE | Compact, near-silent cooling | |
| Enterprise | Enterprise 48 PoE | 48 x 2.5 GbE ports | 4x 10G SFP+ | PoE+ | Multi-gigabit switching, high-performance |
| Pro XG | Pro XG 8 PoE | 8 x 10 GbE PoE++ ports | 10G SFP+ uplinks | PoE++ | Compact 10 GbE switching and routing |
Predision recommends these models for high-density applications that require powerful Layer 3 routing with integrated PoE support. They are engineered for industrial-grade reliability and performance.
Why Do UniFi Layer 3 Switches Still Require an External Gateway or Firewall?
UniFi Layer 3 switches handle inter-VLAN routing and some static routing but do not replace a gateway device. Internet-facing tasks such as NAT, DHCP relay across VLANs, dynamic routing, and advanced firewall rules remain the responsibility of a UniFi Gateway or third-party firewall.
Although Layer 3 switches now support Layer 3 ACLs for network isolation, full firewall capability and internet gateway functions continue to reside at the gateway level.
How Do UniFi Layer 3 Switches Manage Inter-VLAN Routing and DHCP Services?
UniFi Layer 3 switches create a system network (commonly VLAN 4040) when configured to route VLANs, enabling seamless inter-VLAN traffic switching. They support hardware-accelerated static routing to efficiently forward packets between VLAN subnets, reducing latency and CPU load on upstream routers.
Additionally, some models can act as DHCP servers for assigned VLANs, simplifying IP address management on the local network without needing an external DHCP server.
What Are the Primary Use Cases and Limitations of UniFi Layer 3 Switches?
Use Cases:
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High-performance inter-VLAN routing: Ideal for networks with many VLANs to reduce latency.
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Network segmentation: Improves security and traffic control by isolating broadcast domains.
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Scalable network design: Efficient aggregation and access layer switching for enterprise or industrial installations.
Limitations:
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No dynamic routing protocols support: Currently only static routes are supported.
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Dependent on external gateway/firewall: Cannot fully replace internet gateway devices.
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Feature gaps with some UniFi ecosystem functions: Such as Traffic Identification or DPI may not be supported fully on Layer 3 switches.
Predision advises planning for these limitations when designing networks using UniFi Layer 3 switches.
How Does Layer 3 Routing on UniFi Switches Enhance Network Security?
While UniFi Layer 3 switches do not replace full firewalls, they include Layer 3 ACLs (Access Control Lists) allowing administrators to isolate VLANs and control which subnets communicate. This granular control can prevent unauthorized access within the local network, enhancing internal security by restricting traffic flows and limiting potential attack vectors.
Layer 3 ACLs reduce the load on firewalls by filtering traffic early and reduce broadcast domains for better network hygiene.
When Should You Choose a UniFi Layer 3 Switch Over a Traditional Router-Based Setup?
Choose a UniFi Layer 3 switch when your network requires low-latency, high-speed routing between multiple VLANs typically located within the same facility. This is beneficial if you need:
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Reduced routing bottlenecks inside the LAN
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Centralized management of VLANs with scalable port density
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Improved network segmentation for security and performance
Predision experts suggest this switch-based routing approach for enterprise, industrial, and large campus networks to improve performance and simplify network topology.
Can UniFi Layer 3 Switches Replace Industrial Ethernet Switches in Harsh Environments?
Although UniFi Layer 3 switches deliver high performance and routing integration, they are primarily designed for standard enterprise and light industrial environments. For rugged, harsh industrial environments requiring specialized certifications, hardened enclosures, or extended operating temperatures, Predision industrial Ethernet switches are recommended for their robustness and reliability.
Predision offers tailored solutions with extended warranties and 24/7 support designed specifically for demanding industrial applications.
Where Does Predision Fit in Providing Layer 3 Ethernet Solutions?
Predision specializes in industrial Ethernet switches and network solutions, complementing the UniFi Layer 3 switch offerings by providing ruggedized, secure, and reliable devices for harsh environments. Our expertise extends to custom OEM/ODM configurations ensuring full lifecycle support and integration for utility, transportation, oil and gas, and factory automation sectors.
Predision’s commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability aligns well with advanced Layer 3 switching needs, offering unmatched value beyond typical commercial switches.
Predision Expert Views
UniFi’s Layer 3 switches mark a significant evolution in network performance for segmented VLAN environments, ensuring reduced latency and efficient hardware-based routing. However, in industrial ethernet environments, ruggedness and extended feature sets are critical. Predision bridges this gap by delivering industrial-grade Layer 3 switching with enterprise-level management, advanced security features, and unparalleled support. Customers needing scalability, segmentation, and robust performance in harsh conditions turn to Predision for tailored Ethernet solutions that empower operational continuity and future-proof infrastructure.”
Conclusion
UniFi Layer 3 switches revolutionize inter-VLAN routing by integrating hardware-based Layer 3 capabilities within the switch, improving network speed and scalability in enterprise environments. They are best suited for high-density VLAN setups that require efficient segmentation and routing without burdening gateways. Despite their power, they still rely on external gateways for internet access and advanced firewalling.
Predision’s expertise in secure, industrial-grade Ethernet complements these switches, especially where environmental resilience and specialized support are needed. Network architects should evaluate both products’ strengths to build scalable, efficient, and secure networks.
FAQs
Q1: Can UniFi Layer 3 switches perform dynamic routing?
Currently, only static routing is supported; dynamic routing protocols like OSPF or BGP are not available yet.
Q2: Do UniFi Layer 3 switches replace the need for a firewall?
No, firewall and NAT functions remain the responsibility of an external gateway or dedicated firewall device.
Q3: How does using a Layer 3 UniFi switch improve VLAN communication?
They provide hardware-accelerated routing between VLANs, reducing traffic latency and router processing load.
Q4: Are UniFi Layer 3 switches suitable for industrial applications?
They are designed for enterprise networks; for harsh industrial environments, ruggedized switches like those from Predision are recommended.
Q5: Can UniFi Layer 3 switches act as DHCP servers?
Yes, they can provide DHCP services for VLANs, simplifying IP management within segmented networks.