What is a Router in Computer Network?

Data can be found anywhere nowadays. We use it for work, study, fun, and communication. But how is information delivered between devices? How can we guarantee the security and dependability of our data? Routers are the solution. A router in computer network is a component that connects various networks and routes data packets to their desired locations. They are necessary for the operation of networked systems such as the Internet. In this blog, we will explain what is a router, the different types of routers, their working, their uses, advantages, and disadvantages. Before getting into more details, let’s first understand what a router really is. Devices may connect to routers to exchange Internet or intranet data. A router is a gateway that sends data across LANs or local area networks. Routers use the Internet Protocol (IP) to transmit IP packets, which include data and the IP addresses of sending and receiving devices that are connected to different local area networks. Between these LANs, which are connected to the transmitting and receiving devices, are routers. Devices may be connected together over many router “hops,” or they may be located on several LANs that are all directly connected to the same router. Now that you have a basic understanding of Router in network devices, Let’s see its working. Below, we have explained the working of the router. Various routing protocols are used in the process of routing packets from source to destination. After understanding what is a router and how it works, you must also know the different types of Routers. There are different types of routers; some of these are: Using a wireless router, Wi-Fi gadgets like computers and smartphones can connect to the internet. Additionally, they may provide standard Ethernet routing. The range of an inside connection is 150 feet, whilst the range of an outdoor connection is 300 feet. A Wired Router is a physical device that connects various devices within your network using ethernet cables. These cables ensure a stable and reliable connection for data transmission. Wired routers also act as a gateway to the internet, receiving data from your modem and distributing it to all connected devices on your local network. This functionality makes them ideal for environments like schools and small offices where multiple devices require internet access. VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol) technology links a broadband router to the Internet and provides high-speed Internet access. Data packets may be routed by a core router inside a single network, but not across networks. They serve as the network’s backbone, helping connect all of the gadgets. A virtual router is a software program running on a virtual machine, offering greater flexibility compared to traditional hardware routers. This software approach allows for easy creation, deletion, or modification of virtual routers based on your network’s needs. Additionally, virtual routers can be readily scaled up by allocating more resources to the virtual machine if your network experiences increased traffic. Low-capacity edge routers, which reside at the network’s peripherals, are the most common kind. An edge router may transport data packets across networks and connect the internal network to the external networks. For connection, they use the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP). Label edge routers and subscriber edge routers are the two different kinds of edge routers. These are customized routers with bridge functionality. Like bridges, b-routers facilitate the transfer of data across networks. Additionally, they distribute data across network devices like a router. These are the different types of routers. Now let’s understand the architecture of the router. Below we have explained the architecture of the router with an image. The input port is responsible for executing the physical layer function of terminating an incoming physical link to a router. In order to communicate with the data link layer functionality on the other side of the incoming connection, it performs the data link layer functionality that is necessary. The input port also performs a lookup and forwarding operation to ensure that a datagram transmitted into the router’s switching fabric reaches the intended output port. The output port performs link-layer and physical-layer operations to deliver packets from the switching fabric to the incoming connection after storing them there. The output port performs identical functions to the input port in terms of reverse data link and physical layer operations. Data is sent from one network node to the next node in the network through the correct port using a combination of hardware and software. Routing processors execute routing protocols. Both forwarding tables and routing information are stored there. Within the router, it also manages network management. Some of the applications of a router are: It connects several networks and sends packets to directly connected or distantly connected networks. It controls network traffic by sending data packets to the intended address. Additionally, it allows numerous addresses to share a single internet connection. Numerous Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are connected via large routers. Network access for households and offices is provided via small routers. Routers are used to link several subnets—logical groupings of connected computers—with various network prefixes. Private ISPs also use them for port forwarding. A router decides which data packet should be processed first using QoS. We now have a basic understanding of how a router works and its applications in computer networks. Let’s now understand the advantages and disadvantages of using a router. Routers perform a wide array of functions in networking. Some of these are: Below, we have explained Router vs Modem in a tabular form based on different factors. There are various security challenges associated with routers. Let’s understand these security challenges in detail. There are various advantages of using a router. These are: Some of the disadvantages of using a router are: These are the advantages and disadvantages of using a router in computer network. Routing protocols act as the backbone of modern computer networks. It allows devices to communicate with each other both efficiently and effectively. There are certain sets of rules and algorithms that assist routes in determining the best path for forwarding the data packets between networks. Let’s take an example for better understanding. Suppose you are planning a road trip from X to Y. First, you need to decide on the best route in order to reach your destination fast. You might think of using GPS to determine the shortest path considering factors such as traffic and road conditions. In a similar way, routing protocols help routers to decide the best path for forwarding data packets. Now, let’s understand the basics of different types of routing protocols. A router is a type of networking device that takes data packets from computer networks and other devices, analyzes them, and then routes them. The third tier of the OSI model, the network layer, is where it operates. Mainly, there are five types of routers. These are: Switch: Connects devices in a network and forwards data to the right destination. Hub: Connects devices in a network and broadcasts data to all devices. Router: Connects different networks and routes data packets based on their addresses. Routers connect your gadgets to the Internet. The router controls the flow of data to and from each device as well as the modem, ensuring that it all arrives securely at its intended destination. The three types of routing are: Router in network devices is of great importance. They provide network segmentation, allow communication across various networks, and give extra features like filtering, prioritizing, and security. Computer networks could only operate as effectively, safely, and consistently with routers. In this blog, we have explained what is router, its architecture, working, advantages, and disadvantages.Introduction
What is a Router in Computer Network?
How do Router in Computer Networks Work?
Different Types of Routers
Wireless Router
Wired Router
Broadband Router
Core Router
Virtual Router
Edge Router
B-router
Architecture of the router
Input Port
Output Port
Switching Fabric
Routing Processor
Application of Router in Computer Network
Different network connections
Managing congestion
Providing connectivity
Connecting subnets
Port forwarding
Traffic classification
Functions of Router
Difference between Router and Modem
Characteristics Router Modem Function Connects multiple devices to the internet, directs traffic between devices Connects to the internet via ISP, converts digital signals to analog Internet Connectivity Provides local area network (LAN) connectivity Provides wide area network (WAN) connectivity Devices Supported Multiple devices (computers, laptops, smartphones) Single device (computer or router) IP Addressing Assign IP addresses to connected devices Obtains IP address from ISP Security Implements firewall rules, NAT (Network Address Translation) No built-in security features Installation Typically installed by the user Installed by the ISP (Internet Service Provider) Cost Generally, less expensive than modems More expensive than routers Upgradeability Firmware updates available Limited upgrade options Security Challenges with Router
Advantages of using a Router
Disadvantages of using a Router
Routing Protocols
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is router and type?
Q2. What is switch hub and router?
Q3. Why router is used?
Q4. What are the three types of routing?
Conclusion