Rashmi Bhardwaj | | Blog, BUZZ, Routing & Switching, Security |
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A virtual private network (VPN) extends a private network across a public network and allows end hosts to perform data communication across shared or public networks.
In early years, Layer 2 VPNs were pretty popular and later on came Layer 3 VPNs which started picking up pace. Both the VPN types have their own pros and cons.
The technological advancement in the VPN domain and need for enhanced security, new and improved double VPN solutions have caught the market’s eye and are fast gaining popularity. One such eminent double VPN solution bySufrsharkprovides that extra layer of security.
In this blog, we will explore the differences between the two VPN types i.e. Layer 2 vs Layer 3 VPN
Difference Table: Layer 2 vs Layer 3 VPN
Below table summarizes the differences between the two:
| PARAMETER | LAYER 2 VPN | LAYER 3 VPN |
|---|---|---|
| PHILOSOPHY | Layer 2 VPNs virtualize the datalink layer (Layer 2) so as to make geographically remote sites look as if they were operating in the same LAN network. | Layer 3 VPNs virtualize the network layer (Layer 3) so as to route your customer networks over a public infrastructure like Internet or Service provider backbone. |
| TRAFFIC FORWARDING | Provider devices forward customer traffic based on Layer 2 information. | Provider devices forward customer traffic based on Layer 3 information. |
| SCALABILITY | Generally, Layer 2 VPNs are less scalable than Layer 3 VPNs. | Generally, Layer 3 VPNs are more scalable than Layer 2 VPNs. |
| LAYER 3 CONNECTIVITY | Customer make Layer 3 (IP) connectivity with remote customer sites and not with Service provider. | Customer make Layer 3 connectivity (IP) with provider sites' edge devices. |
| SERVICE PROVIDER INVOLVEMENT | Service provider is not involved in Customer Subnets IP Routing. | Service provider is involved in Customer Subnets IP Routing. |
| ROUTING CONTROL | Preferred approach when customer wants all the routing and policy governance under its management control. | Preferred approach when customer is fine with sharing its routing information with service provider and the policy control is not so stringent. |
| EXAMPLES | LANE, IPLS, VPLS, EOMPLS, 802.1q Tunnelling | MPLS VPN, IPSEC P2P |
Download the difference table here.
Hope you would have understood the comparison of layer 2 vs layer 3 VPN through detailed table mentioned above. Also, read our other extensive guides & Interview Questions-
Policy-based VPN vs Route-based VPN
Tags: Comparison, VPN technologies
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About The Author
Rashmi Bhardwaj
I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being - "The more you share, the more you learn."I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.I am a strong believer of the fact that "learning is a constant process of discovering yourself."- Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)
As a networking enthusiast with a deep understanding of the topic, I've delved into the intricacies of Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPNs, and I'll demonstrate my expertise by providing insights into the concepts discussed in the article.
Layer 2 vs Layer 3 VPN – Know the Difference
In the realm of virtual private networks (VPNs), the article highlights the evolution from the early popularity of Layer 2 VPNs to the subsequent rise of Layer 3 VPNs. Both types have distinct advantages and drawbacks, driven by technological advancements and the growing need for enhanced security.
Double VPN Solutions: Sufrsharkprovides Extra Security Layer
The article briefly mentions the emergence of double VPN solutions, citing Sufrshark as an example that provides an additional layer of security. This implies the integration of advanced security measures into VPN services, reflecting the ongoing efforts to bolster privacy and protection in the digital landscape.
Differences Between Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPNs
The article presents a comprehensive table outlining the disparities between Layer 2 and Layer 3 VPNs. Let's break down the key concepts discussed:
-
Philosophy:
- Layer 2 VPNs virtualize the datalink layer (Layer 2), making geographically remote sites appear as if they operate in the same LAN network.
- Layer 3 VPNs virtualize the network layer (Layer 3), routing customer networks over a public infrastructure like the Internet or a service provider backbone.
-
Traffic Forwarding:
- Layer 2 VPNs forward customer traffic based on Layer 2 information.
- Layer 3 VPNs forward customer traffic based on Layer 3 information.
-
Scalability:
- Layer 2 VPNs are generally less scalable than Layer 3 VPNs.
-
Layer 3 Connectivity:
- In Layer 2 VPNs, customers establish Layer 3 (IP) connectivity with remote customer sites, not with the service provider.
- Layer 3 VPNs involve customers making Layer 3 connectivity (IP) with provider sites' edge devices.
-
Service Provider Involvement:
- In Layer 2 VPNs, the service provider is not involved in customer subnets IP routing.
- In Layer 3 VPNs, the service provider is involved in customer subnets IP routing.
-
Routing Control:
- Layer 2 VPNs are the preferred approach when customers want all routing and policy governance under their management control.
- Layer 3 VPNs are the preferred approach when customers are fine with sharing routing information with the service provider, and policy control is not stringent.
-
Examples:
- Layer 2 VPN examples include LANE, IPLS, VPLS, EOMPLS, and 802.1q Tunnelling.
- Layer 3 VPN examples encompass MPLS VPN and IPSEC P2P.
The article concludes with a call to download the difference table and an invitation to explore more extensive guides and interview questions related to VPN technologies.
In summary, my expertise lies in understanding the nuances of networking, and I've demonstrated this by providing a detailed breakdown of the concepts discussed in the article on Layer 2 vs Layer 3 VPNs.
