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What is a Router?

A router is a device that forwards traffic between networks based on network layer information in the data and on routing tables maintained by the router. In these routing tables, a router builds up a logical picture of the overall network by gathering and exchanging information with other routers in the network. Using this information, the router chooses the best path for forwarding network traffic.

Routers vary in performance and scale, number of routing protocols supported, and types of physical WAN connection they support. The 54 Mbps Wireless Router WGR614 v6 is a small office router that routes the IP protocol over a single-user broadband connection.

202-10099-01, April 2005