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Networking Fundamentals · Foundational

Router

A Layer 3 device that forwards packets between different IP networks based on destination IP address and its routing table.

Definition

Routers connect subnets and WANs, separate broadcast domains, and decrement TTL on each forwarded packet. They often also provide NAT, DHCP, ACL filtering and VPN termination. Routing tables are built from connected, static and dynamic routes.

Example

A branch router connects the office LAN to the corporate WAN and Internet.

Exam tip

Each router interface is a separate broadcast domain.

Don't confuse it with

Related terms