topic Re: Layer 2 tunnel on a Palo alto in General Topics

Layer 2 tunnel on a Palo alto

jdprovine — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 15:52:50 GMT

Can you create a layer 2 tunnel on a palo alto 3050? Is a layer 3 tunnel better than a layer 2 tunnel? Is a layer 2 tunnel more of a private or direction connection than a layer 3?

Re: Layer 2 tunnel on a Palo alto

asangra — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 15:57:30 GMT

Yes, we can using SVI technology.

https://knowledgebase.paloaltonetworks.com/KCSArticleDetail?id=kA10g000000ClMuCAK

Re: Layer 2 tunnel on a Palo alto

jdprovine — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 15:59:41 GMT

@asangra

I will read the article but right off the top of your head is layer 2 tunnel a more direct connection than layer 3

Re: Layer 2 tunnel on a Palo alto

SebRupik — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 11:00:59 GMT

Hi there,

You cannot create L2VPN on the Palo Alto. The document referenced by @asangra shows a PA in L2 mode, but the IPSec tunnel created is between a router and L3 mode PA. The encapsulated tunnel is Layer 3.

If you wanted to create a L2VPN you would need to do it between two routers.

Regarding which is better, it is dependent on the traffic type. Some network services operate at Layer2 only and cannot be routed, so an L2VPN between sites is the only viable option. From a security perspective as you have seen, the PA can operate in either mode to provide security.

cheers,

Seb.