LAYER 2 VS. LAYER 3 NETWORKS, What is the Difference?
Layer 2 networks are a collection of devices that are typically only able to transmit data to and receive data from devices that they are directly connected to. Layer 2 networks are typically considered to be a Local Area Network (LAN) which is a network that typically covers a small area such as a building or an office. Layer 3 networks are made up of large numbers of interconnected devices that can transmit data to and receive data from devices that are not directly connected to them. L3 networks are typically considered to be a Wide Area Network (WAN) which is a network that covers a large region of an area or the whole world. L2 networks typically use MAC addresses, IP addresses, and L2 addressing schemes such as VLANs or Subnets
The fundamental difference between both networks is in their connection information and reliability. Some networks use the L3 protocol while others use the L2 protocol.
While it may seem advantageous to have a network with a high ability to keep packets load, many companies are happy with adopting a lower-cost, less reliable but dynamic solution before investing in expensive solutions based purely on technology. Layer 3 networks are often seen as the versions of corporate giant networking – Boeing, Ford, and Volkswagon. They offer increased connectivity options such as greater reliability and faster speeds over that offered by L2 networks such as that of T-Mobile or LL Bean (Nordstrom). which may offer “good enough” for most basic networks. L2 networks are often seen as the versions of more affordable residential type products – T-Mobile and LL Bean. They offer increased speed in low-bandwidth applications but with a lower level of reliability than that offered by L3 networks, or the highly scalable network solutions that have been seen being deployed
How are LAYER 2 VS LAYER 3 Networks Structured?
An L2 network is a network that functions on the Data Link layer of the OSI model. It uses Ethernet or Token Ring protocols to organize its data. L2 networks are often used in small office and home networks, as they don’t require a lot of bandwidth or speed. The downside to Layer 2 networks is that they do not offer any security features, so data can be compromised if there is an attack on the network. L3 networks are different from L2 in that they function on the Network layer of the OSI model. They use IP addresses and routing protocols to organize their data, which requires more bandwidth and speed than an L2 network does. An L3 network has more security features built into it than an L2 one does, so it’s better for larger companies that need a lot of space. L2 vs L3 Networks layer 2 networks are made up of Ethernet or token rings, they don’t use IP addresses and they lack security features. L3 networks are made up of IP addresses and routing protocols, they have security features built-in which is why it’s better for larger companies who need more data.
What Factors Affect the Determination of Layer 2 VS Layer 3 Network Technologies?
L2 networks are mainly used in small and medium-sized businesses where the network is not too large. L3 networks are used when the network is larger and more complex. The size of the network, the number of devices on it, and the need for redundancy all play a role in determining which type of network to use.
The following sections describe the different methods and devices that can be used to create Layer 2 networks. The simplest type of network is a Point-to-Point network. A point-to-point network is usually used between two switches that are connected via cables, such as Ethernet cables. In order to create a Point-to-Point network, there must be two switches that are connected and then a cable must be run between them.
The network can also be created by using an expander/repeater connected to the same switch, which acts as a bridge. A Point-to-Point network is known to have the least amount of cabling and therefore the least amount of failure points. If a cable is broken or pulled on the network, it affects only a single device. Types of NetworksThere are different types of networks with different properties. Some common examples are:-LAN/WAN – Campus/enterprise network – Local Area Network (LAN) – Wide Area Network (WAN) – Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) – Internet network- Wireless network – Wired network – Wired/Radio Frequency (RF) network
Conclusion: What to Choose as Your Layer 2 Vs Layer 3 Networkbased On Your Occurrence Needs
The layer 2 network is more focused on reliability and performance while the layer 3 network is more focused on the routing. Layer 2 networks are made up of switches and they are used for data exchange between devices in a local area. Layer 3 networks are made up of routers and they route data packets across the internet. .There are three types of networks:-Local Area Network(LAN) which is a network with all devices within a relatively small area, such as a company’s office, home, or school.-Wide Area Network(WAN) which is a network that spans across different areas and connects to other networks. A WAN might connect to other LAN s or other WANs, for example. Cable Modem Routers are often used to connect a LAN to a WAN.-The Internet which is a network of networks that spans across the globe.
