Router: what is it and what is it for?

The router allows communication between the local network and the Internet.

We (almost) all use the Internet, but many are unaware of how this technology works. Among the various elements necessary for the proper functioning of the Internet is the router.

The router is a device allowing communication between a local home network and the Internet. The home local network can be, for example, a personal computer or a connected object.

What is A Router, and What is it For?

As mentioned before, a router primarily allows communication between a local home network and the Internet.

A router also protects the network from possible intrusion. Thus, by activating the highest security level on the router, it is possible to protect the computer and the information it contains against cyberattacks.

The routers contain software called “firmware.” As a precaution, this software should update as each time the router manufacturer deploys an update.

The router connects a modem to other devices to allow communication between these devices and the Internet. Most routers have multiple network ports to allow multiple devices to connect to the Internet simultaneously.

Typically, a router physically connects to the modem via a network cable via an Internet or WAN port. It then also physically connects via a cable to a network interface card of the devices to be connected to the Internet.

Router Analyze

The router analyzes the destination IP address of a data packet, calculates the best route to take to reach its destination, and sends the data packet.

Many routers connect to other network devices only through cables and do not require drivers to run on Windows or other operating systems.

However, this is not the case for routers that connect via USB or FireWire.

There are also wireless routers that can be connected using different wireless standards for devices that are compatible with the same standards. Wireless routers act as network switches allowing devices to communicate with each other and exchange information.

The IP address assigned public IP address. However, the IP address assigned to the local area network (LAN) connection is a private IP address. The private IP addresses assigned to the it are generally the default gateway for the various devices on the network.

What are the Different Types and the Main Manufacturers?

Most routers manufacture by market leaders: Linksys, 3Com, Belkin, D-Link, Motorola, TRENDnet, Cisco … but there are a large number of other manufacturers.

There are also different types of routers. The “Core” routers are the fastest and most powerful. Internet service providers use them. Located at the center of the Internet, they transfer information via the main fiber optic backbone. Enterprise routers use to connect large enterprise networks to these “core” routers.

An Edge router, is known as an access router, is a lower capacity device. It is located on the edge of a local area network (LAN) and allows this network to connect to a WAN, the Internet, or external LANs. Small office routers and home routers fall into this category.