Network Routers Key Terms

Learn basic terms for the ins and outs of network routers

People rely on the Internet to send and receive email messages and documents every day. Behind the scenes, a complex system works to transmit all this information. Network routers are responsible for performing this work. There are millions of network routers on the Internet. In order to function, network routers must have at least two networks. They don’t just send information; they protect networks, preventing traffic from overflowing into them.

 

Network routers

Network routers, which are specialized computers, route and forward information to other routers. They determine what is the best route to send information. Network routers have specialized operating system software. It's also not unusual for them to have multiple central processing units (CPUs).
Try: InetDaemon provides information on how network routers work. It also explains why they’re necessary.

Configuration table

A configuration table consists of the location of the network devices and their conditions. The network router then uses the information in this table to decide upon the best route to send the data.
Try: TechTarget provides a comprehensive definition of a configuration table.

Packet

Packets are the basic elements of transporting information on computer networks. They can vary in size. Packets comprise the following: header, body and trailer. The body consists of the message that is being sent.
Try: Look at Cheap56k to get a brief description of a packet.

Packet-switching network

Packet switching separates messages into packets before they're transmitted. Network routers send these packets individually. Once all the packets arrive at the destination they are reassembled into the original message. Packet switching makes the best use of the network's bandwidth and reduces the time it takes for the information to travel across the network.
Try: Linfo not only explains what a packet-switching network is but why IT professionals use this technology.

Layer 3

When network engineers design and implement networks, they base them on a model, known as OSI, which stands for Open Systems Interconnection. OSI consists of several layers. One of these layers is the network layer, which is also known as Layer 3. The network router functions on this layer and is responsible for connecting networks, selecting routes and maintaining specific types of broadcast traffic.
Try: Pulse provides an abstract on Layer 3. You will learn about its origins, as well as the other models that play important roles in computer networking.

Subnet masks

Subnet masks help network routers identify which messages should stay within the network and which should be sent to another one. The subnet masks usually contain 255.255.255.0.
Try: Microsoft offers in-depth information on subnet masks.

Copyright © 2011 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---