Networking Basics: Routers
Networking Basics: Routers
When looking at networking basics, understanding the way a network operates is the first step to understanding routing and switching. The network operates by connecting computers and peripherals using two pieces of equipment; switches and routers.
Switches and routers, essential networking basics, enable the devices that are connected to your network to communicate with each other, as well as with other Networks. Though they look quite similar, routers and switches perform very different functions in a network.
Routers, the second esteemed component of our networking basics and are used to tie multiple networks together. For example, if we would use a router to connect your networked computers to the Internet and thereby share an Internet connection among many users. The router will act as a correspondent, choosing the best route for your communication to travel so that you receive it quickly.
Routers analyze the data being sent over a network, change how it is packaged, and send it to another network, or over a different type of network. They connect your business to the outside world, protect your information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others
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| Fig 1.1- Basics of Router |
Depending on your business and your networking plans, you can choose from routers that include different capabilities. These can include networking basics such as:
- Firewall: Specialized software that examines incoming data and protects your business network against attacks
- Virtual Private Network (VPN): A way to allow remote employees to safely access your network remotely
- IP Phone network : Combine your company's computer and telephone network, using voice and conferencing technology, to simplify and unify your communications
