1

My current setup is:

modem -> router -> switch (with poe) -> Access point (ubiquiti) | -> security camera | -> other access point -> PCs near the router

I just got sonic fiber (gigabit), so I need to upgrade my router and switch from 10/100 to gigabit.

I can either buy a single unit that does both routing and switching, or I can by two separate units, similar to the setup I have now.

Aside from there being fewer wires, what are the pros / cons of a single unit vs two separate units? (from a brief Amazon search, it seems that separates may be less expensive, but it may not be an apples-to-apples comparison)

thanks

Improve this question
3
  • Unfortunately, questions about home networking and consumer-grade devices are explicitly off-topic here. You could try to ask this question on Super User.
    – Ron Maupin ♦
    Commented Jul 5, 2017 at 7:14
  • I fail to see a good reason to close this. There's not even a mention of consumer grade device.
    – JFL
    Commented Jul 5, 2017 at 8:06
  • @JFL indeed, the devices in question are 'professional grade' - the routers and switches that I'm considering buying are Ubiquiti. In the past I used consumer grade gear, but it was too unreliable. The setup described above is exactly what I used to have for my small business. All that said.. yes, this is for my home setup, so if that's the deciding factor then close the question. But please know that it's a home that aspires to be run to a professional standard using professional kit :)
    – tom
    Commented Jul 6, 2017 at 4:35

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
2

Pros:

  • simpler cabling
  • less encumbrance
  • single point of administration

Cons:

  • single point of failure
  • cannot upgrade a single device at a time.
  • can be trickier to troubleshoot

Depending of the devices chosen, the price could be a pro or a con.

Personally, I strongly prefer separate devices.

Improve this answer
3
  • Several devices in a chain are multiple single points of failure - it's better to have a single point of failure.
    – Zac67 ♦
    Commented Jul 5, 2017 at 6:24
  • @Zac67 true an false. Depends on the topology. In a flat network, or a combination of layer 3 switch for internal routing and separate router for Internet access, a failure of the Internet access router does not impact the ability of clients to talk with the servers, thus less impact, for example.
    – JFL
    Commented Jul 5, 2017 at 8:13
  • totally correct - with 'in a chain' I was implying that you require all of them at the same time, should've been more clear. ;-)
    – Zac67 ♦
    Commented Jul 5, 2017 at 14:21

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.