VLAN clarification

If they are on a Layer 2 switch, then yes they need a router to communicate.

If they are on a Layer 3 switch, then no they do not need a router to communicate.

If you have multiple Layer 2 switches and they are trunked together, intra VLAN communication will happen, ie VLAN 3 on switch 1 can talk to VLAN 3 on switch 2 but the same as above appplies, they can not talk to other VLAN's without some type of Layer 3 device.

Many thanks for that- i am on Semester 3 of CCNA and havent really covered any Layer 3 switches-do you know if its in this course or is it in CCNP?

One would think it is in there..... 80+% of the switch product line these days is Layer3 capable switches.

Hi Gregg,

L3 switching is definately covered in the CCNP, particularly the BCMSN course.

When I took the CCNA around July this year, I didn't learn any L3 topics for the exam and I can't recall any questions on it. Intervlan routing was carried out by external routers. I'd check the CCNA blueprint to be sure though.

Thanks guys-will do

That is the whole point of a VLAN - keep things separate.

Only if someone has f***ed up the config.

They do, but the L3 switch is that router.

P.