What is the Difference Between Router and Switch?

Routers and switches are both essential networking devices, but they perform different functions within a network. Here are the key differences between them:

1. Function: Routers connect multiple networks together and facilitate communication between them, while switches connect devices within a network to enable them to share resources and communicate with each other.
2. Layer: Routers operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and work with IP addresses, while switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) and work with MAC addresses.
3. Connectivity: Routers connect multiple switches and their respective networks to form a larger network, while switches connect devices such as computers, printers, and servers within a network.
4. Internet Access: Routers allow networked devices and multiple users to access the internet, while switches primarily focus on connecting devices within a network.
5. Traffic Management: Routers work as dispatchers, directing traffic and choosing the most efficient route for data packets to travel across a network, while switches manage traffic within a network by forwarding data frames to their specified destinations.

In summary, routers are responsible for connecting networks and managing traffic between them, while switches focus on connecting devices within a network to enable communication and resource sharing. Both devices are essential components of a network infrastructure, and they work together to ensure efficient and secure communication between devices and networks.

Comparative Table: Router vs Switch

Here is a table comparing the differences between a router and a switch:

In summary, routers operate at Layer 3 of the OSI model and are responsible for connecting networks and tracking network traffic between them. They work with both wired and wireless networks and store IP addresses in the routing table. On the other hand, switches operate at Layer 2 of the OSI model and are responsible for connecting various devices on a single network. They work only with wired network connections and store MAC addresses in a lookup table.