What is Router & Major Functions

A router is a layer three (Network Layer in OSI Reference Model) device used to connect different networks. For example, if you want to connect two networks one is FDDI and other is Ethernet, we need a router. It also connects networks with the different network address. To move information between devices having different network numbers, we need a layer 3 device. Routers can switch packets on the same interface using VLANs.

Router and Routing Tables

The router makes routing decisions based on the routing table it has. Routing table consists of path information to send packets to neighboring routers. Routing table with routing protocols helps router to find the shortest path to send packets to the destination.

Examples of Routing Protocols

1. Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP)
   
   
2. Routing Information Protocol (RIP)
   
   
3. Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)
   
   
4. Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)
   
   
5. Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
   

Functions of Router
We cannot finish an article about routers without mentioning their functions. The major functions are:

1. Router Connects Different Network Types
   
   
2. It joins networks with different network addresses
   
   
3. It finds the shortest path to send packets to the destination
   
   
4. It defines logical address schemes
   
   
5. Router supports VLANs
   
   
6. The router has features like Quality of Service and Filtering
   
   
7. It builds routing tables to make layer 3 decisions fast

Links to Router Configuration Guides

Here we provide links to some of our popular configuration and troubleshooting guides.

1. How to Configure Belkin Wireless Device By Manual Steps
   
   
2. AutoConfigure Belkin F5D8233-4 Router
   
   
3. Configure D-Link DIR-865L Amplifi Cloud  5700 With Cable & DSL
   
   
4. How to Setup D-Link Wireless
   
   
5. Setup D-Link WiFi WBR-2310
   
   
6. How to Setup Linksys WRT54G  in PPPoE Mode
   
   
7. How to Configure Linksys E4200 Wireless-N
   
   
8. Manual Steps to Setup Any Model Of Linksys Routers

Functions of Transport Layer	PING: Transmit failed. General Failure
Uses of Netstat Command	Destination Net Unreachable
Destination host unreachable	Enable Disabled Adapter
Resolve Windows Automatic IP Address	Hard Disk SMART Command Failed Error
Solve TTL Expired in Transit	Ping Request Could not Find Host