What is an internet router?

What is an internet router?

An Internet router or router is a device designed to receive incoming packets, analyze them, and transmit them to another network. It can also be used to divert packets to another network interface, drop them, and perform other network-related actions.




Internet router capabilities.

A router has much more capabilities than other network hardware, such as a hub or switch, that can only perform basic network functions.




For example, a Hub can transmit data between computers or network devices but does not analyze the transferred data or do anything with it. But by contrast, a router can analyze the data sent over the network, change the way it is packaged, and send it to another network or over a different network.







home router network

In the above example, for a home network, there are two different types of routers: a router and a wireless router. In this example, the router allows all computers and other network devices to access the Internet.




A wireless router allows your laptop to connect wirelessly to your home network and access the Internet as well.




Types of internet routers.

Wireless router (Wi-Fi).

Wireless routers provide Wi-Fi access to smartphones, laptops, and other devices with Wi-Fi capabilities.




Also, it may provide standard Ethernet routing for a small number of wired network devices. Some Wi-Fi routers can act as a combination router and modem, diverting the broadband signal from your ISP.




Read also... Simple ways to speed up the Internet and Wi-Fi at home.




B-router.

Short for Bridge Router, it is a network device that acts as both a bridge and a router.




Primary router.

The primary device is a router in a computer network that routes data within the network, but not between networks.




edge router.

For information about the edge router, see the edge device identification page.




default router.

The default device is a backup router used in VRRP setup.




How far can the router reach?

The typical range of a wireless router is about 45 meters when connected indoors and up to 90 meters outdoors. However, obstacles such as walls and other objects can reduce the indoor range to 75% of the maximum distance or less.