By default, do static routes take precedence over VPN Traffic?

Static routes do indeed take precedence over VPN traffic by default. This means that when a SonicWall firewall is determining the best path for outbound traffic, it will prioritize static routes over VPN tunnel routes. This prioritization is important for ensuring that traffic intended for specific networks is routed through defined paths that are often necessary for performance, security, or compliance reasons.

When a static route is configured, it provides a direct path for the firewall to forward packets addressed to specific destinations. Conversely, VPN traffic is typically encapsulated and routed through a secure tunnel, which may not be the most efficient route for certain kinds of traffic depending on the network's architecture or operational requirements.

This default behavior can be crucial for network administrators to understand when configuring their firewalls, as it affects how different types of traffic are handled. It allows for a more predictable routing behavior, ensuring that static configurations provide stability and control over how data flows through the network.