# router

> device that connects computer networks

**Wikidata**: [Q5318](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5318)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router_(computing))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/router

## Summary
A **router** is a networking device that connects multiple computer networks, directing data traffic between them. It operates as a central hub in both home and enterprise networks, enabling communication between devices and the internet.

## Key Facts
- **Function**: A router connects computer networks and forwards data packets between them.
- **Classification**: Part of the broader category of **networking hardware**, which includes devices that mediate data in computer networks.
- **Types**:
  - **Wireless router**: Combines routing and wireless access point functions.
  - **Core router**: Designed for high-speed data transfer in the internet backbone.
  - **Bridge router**: Functions as both a bridge and a router.
- **Notable models**:
  - **Google Wifi**: A mesh-capable wireless router developed by Google.
  - **Linksys WRT3200ACM**: A network router released in 2016.
  - **TP-Link Archer AX50**: A dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router.
- **Industry standards**: Classified under **UNSPSC code 43222609** and **GS1 GPC code 10003737**.

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary function of a router?
A: A router connects multiple computer networks and directs data traffic between them, ensuring efficient communication.

### Q: What are the different types of routers?
A: Common types include wireless routers, core routers (for internet backbones), bridge routers, and gaming routers.

### Q: What is a wireless router?
A: A wireless router combines the functions of a router and a wireless access point, allowing devices to connect to a network without cables.

### Q: What are some well-known router brands?
A: Notable brands include **Linksys**, **Netgear**, **TP-Link**, **Google**, and **Cisco**.

### Q: How does a router differ from a modem?
A: A modem connects to an ISP to provide internet access, while a router directs traffic between devices within a network and the internet.

## Why It Matters
Routers are fundamental to modern networking, enabling seamless communication between devices and the internet. They play a critical role in both home and enterprise environments by managing data traffic, ensuring security, and optimizing network performance. Without routers, the internet as we know it would not function, as they facilitate the transfer of data across vast distances and between different networks. Their evolution—from basic wired devices to advanced wireless and mesh systems—has driven the growth of digital connectivity, supporting everything from simple web browsing to complex cloud computing and IoT applications.

## Notable For
- **Versatility**: Available in various forms, including wireless, core, and bridge routers, catering to different networking needs.
- **Mesh networking**: Some modern routers, like **Google Wifi**, support mesh networks for extended coverage.
- **High-speed data transfer**: Core routers are optimized for the internet backbone, handling massive data flows.
- **Integration with modems**: Some routers, like the **TP-Link Archer VR1600v**, combine routing and modem functions.
- **Security features**: Advanced routers, such as the **Iron Edge Gateway**, incorporate post-quantum security measures.

## Body
### **Types of Routers**
- **Wireless Router**: Combines routing and Wi-Fi access, commonly used in homes and offices.
- **Core Router**: High-capacity routers used by ISPs to manage internet backbone traffic.
- **Bridge Router**: Acts as both a bridge (connecting similar networks) and a router (connecting different networks).
- **Gaming Router**: Optimized for low latency and high performance in online gaming.
- **Modem-Router Combo**: Devices like the **TP-Link Archer VR1600v** integrate DSL modem and routing functions.

### **Notable Router Models**
- **Google Wifi**: A mesh-capable router system for seamless home coverage.
- **Linksys WRT3200ACM**: A high-performance router released in 2016.
- **Netgear WNR3500L**: A popular Wi-Fi router with multiple versions.
- **MikroTik RouterBOARD**: A series of routers known for advanced networking features.
- **FRITZ!Box 7590**: A Wi-Fi router with integrated DSL modem functionality.

### **Technical Specifications**
- **Standards Compliance**: Routers adhere to industry codes like **UNSPSC 43222609** and **GS1 GPC 10003737**.
- **Security Features**: Some routers, such as the **Iron Edge Gateway**, use post-quantum encryption (ML-KEM) for enhanced security.
- **Wi-Fi Generations**: Modern routers support **Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax)**, offering faster speeds and better efficiency.

### **Historical Context**
- The concept of routing dates back to early computer networks, evolving alongside the internet.
- Modern routers incorporate advanced features like **SDN (Software-Defined Networking)** and **AI-driven traffic management**.

## Schema Markup
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Router",
  "description": "A device that connects computer networks and directs data traffic between them.",
  "url": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router_(computing)",
  "sameAs": [
    "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q132138",
    "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router_(computing)"
  ],
  "additionalType": "NetworkingHardware"
}

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
2. [Nuovo soggettario](https://thes.bncf.firenze.sbn.it/termine.php?id=61790)
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. YSO-Wikidata mapping project
5. BabelNet
6. National Library of Israel
7. KBpedia
8. GF WordNet