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Router Switch Overview

The document provides an overview of routers and switches, detailing their functions, types, and differences. Routers connect different networks and route data based on IP addresses, while switches connect devices within the same network using MAC addresses. It also discusses when to use each device and introduces advanced concepts like VLANs and routing protocols.

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31 views3 pages

Router Switch Overview

The document provides an overview of routers and switches, detailing their functions, types, and differences. Routers connect different networks and route data based on IP addresses, while switches connect devices within the same network using MAC addresses. It also discusses when to use each device and introduces advanced concepts like VLANs and routing protocols.

Uploaded by

cinemasixers
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Title: Routers and Switches - In-depth Overview

1. What is a Router?

A router is a Layer 3 (Network layer) device that connects different networks together. It routes data

packets between networks based on IP addresses.

- Functions:

- Routes traffic based on IP address

- Connects LANs to WANs (e.g., home network to the Internet)

- Performs NAT (Network Address Translation)

- Can serve as a firewall

- Types of Routers:

- Wired Router

- Wireless Router

- Core Router (used in backbone infrastructure)

- Edge Router (connects to ISP)

2. What is a Switch?

A switch is a Layer 2 (Data Link layer) device that connects devices within the same network (LAN)

and uses MAC addresses to forward data.

- Functions:

- Creates network segments

- Uses MAC address table to forward frames

- Reduces collisions

- Can be managed (Managed Switches) or unmanaged


- Types of Switches:

- Unmanaged Switch

- Managed Switch (VLAN, SNMP support)

- Layer 3 Switch (can perform some routing)

3. Differences between Routers and Switches:

Feature | Router | Switch

----------------------|----------------------------------|--------------------------------

OSI Layer | Layer 3 (Network) | Layer 2 (Data Link)

Uses | Connects networks | Connects devices within a LAN

Data Transfer Basis | IP Address | MAC Address

Function | Routing | Switching

Example Use | Internet access | Office LAN

4. When to Use:

- Use a router to connect different networks (e.g., to connect your home network to the internet).

- Use a switch to connect multiple devices within the same network (e.g., desktop computers in an

office).

5. Advanced Concepts:

- VLANs (on switches): Logical segmentation of LANs

- Routing Protocols (on routers): RIP, OSPF, BGP

- Switch Stacking: Combine multiple switches for redundancy and scalability

- PoE Switch: Power over Ethernet support for IP cameras and phones

6. Real-world Usage Example:


In a typical office:

- Switches connect all computers and printers in the building.

- A router connects the switch to the internet and handles external communication, IP routing, and

NAT.

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