Network routers are essential devices in computer networking that serve as the central point of between different networks. They operate at the (Layer 3) of the TCP/IP networking model and are responsible for routing data packets between networks based on the source and IP address of the packet, enabling data to travel between devices on different subnets or even across the internet. Home network routers are usually combined devices that also include: a firewall, Ethernet Switch, and Wireless Access Point.
Routers are responsible for data packets between networks. When a router receives a packet, it examines the destination IP address and makes decisions to determine the most efficient path for the packet to reach its destination. Routing is the core function of a router, which uses routing tables and algorithms to determine the best path for data packets to travel. Furthermore, routers can assign IP addresses to devices within a local network, typically using (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).
A routing table contains information about network and is used to determine the best path for forwarding data packets from the source to the destination within a network. When a router receives a data packet, it examines the packet's destination IP address and looks it up in its routing table for the most specific matching route. If a matching route is found, the router determines the next hop or to which the data packet should be sent, as well as the outgoing network interface. The process repeats at each hop until the packet reaches its final .
