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Can a Layer 3 switch replace a router for WAN connections?

Learn how to use a Layer 3 switch in place of a router for WANs from a routing expert.

Sudhanshu Gupta

Can a Layer 3 switch have WAN connectivity and replace a router for WAN connections?

Certainly, yes. You can terminate WAN links on the switch if:

You have physical ports on the switch or
If the WAN link is on Ethernet like in the case of managed leased links.

This was last published in September 2008

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Can a Layer 3 switch replace a router for WAN connections?

Learn how to use a Layer 3 switch in place of a router for WANs from a routing expert.

Dig Deeper on WAN optimization and performance

Related Q&A from Sudhanshu Gupta

What is the difference between a managed and unmanaged switch?

Linking an unmanaged switch and DHCP server

How does User-based Rate Limiting (UBRL) do if I have oversubscribed a port or switch?

Have a question for an expert?

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SearchUnifiedCommunications

Microsoft Teams reaches 20 million users, threatening Slack

The advantages of video calling drive business competition

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SearchMobileComputing

Deploy kiosk devices with the Managed Home Screen Android app

New Outlook features appeal to users on the go

Smartphone market trends elicit longer refresh cycles

SearchDataCenter

Understand top public cloud repatriation use cases

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Top 5 options for Linux certifications

SearchITChannel

Cohesity, Pivot3 update channel partner programs, MDF funds

Businesses move key applications off public cloud to save costs

Silver Peak cautions against sitting on the fence over SD-WAN

Dig Deeper on WAN optimization and performance

Related Q&A from Sudhanshu Gupta

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