What is a primary benefit of using a Layer 3 switch over a Layer 2 switch?

Choosing a Layer 3 switch offers enhanced routing capabilities as a primary benefit over a Layer 2 switch. Layer 3 switches operate at the network layer of the OSI model and are capable of performing routing functions, allowing for IP address manipulation and making forwarding decisions based on Layer 3 protocols. This enables inter-VLAN routing, which is essential in larger networks where different VLANs need to communicate with each other.

In contrast, Layer 2 switches primarily focus on MAC address handling and provide switching functions within the same broadcast domain. While they effectively manage traffic within local networks, they do not have the capability to route traffic between different IP networks without the help of an external router. Therefore, the enhanced routing capabilities of Layer 3 switches allow for more sophisticated network designs, greater scalability, and better overall network performance in varied scenarios.