Choose your inter-VLAN routing method based on network requirements:
Router on a Stick:
- Low cost (uses existing router)
- Simple for small networks
- Limited throughput
- Good for: small offices, labs
Layer Switch:
- Higher initial cost
- Wire-speed routing
- Scales to large networks
- Good for: enterprise networks, data centers
External Router with Multiple Interfaces:
- Each VLAN gets a dedicated router port
- No trunk configuration needed
- Good for: when you need router features (NAT, firewall)
Most modern enterprises use Layer switches for internal routing and dedicated routers for WAN connectivity.