Network Routers

Network routers are protocol-dependent devices that connect subnetworks.  Network routers are also used to break down a large network into smaller subnetworks; they introduce longer delays and typically have much lower throughput rates than bridges. Routers operate at the Layer 3 network layer.  Protocol, performance specifications, port, and features are all important parameters to consider when selecting network routers.

Protocol is the fundamental mechanism for network communications. They specify the software attributes of data communications, including the structure of a packet and the information contained in it. Protocols may also prescribe all or some of the operational characteristics of the hardware on which they will run. Popular network protocols include IPX, TCP/IP and AppleTalk.  Additional protocols available for network hubs include ATM, CANbus, ControlNet, DeviceNet, ARCNET, 10 Base-2 Ethernet, 10/100 Ethernet, 10Base-T Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit, Ethernet, Fibre Channel, FDDI, Fieldbus, Frame Relay, INTERBUS, ISDN, PROFIBUS, SONET, Token Ring, and xDSL.  Wireless network routers are configured for use in wireless systems.  Some network routers are configured for IP telephony.  IP telephony allows voice phone calls to be made over the Internet or other packet networks using a PC, via gateways and standard telephones.

Important performance specifications to consider when searching for network routers include number of ports, data rate, and memory.  Number of ports specifies the total number of ports available on the networking equipment.  Data rate is the maximum data transfer speed.  Memory is the total memory of the network equipment.  Common port choices for network routers include AUI, BNC, IEEE 1394, GBIC, MIC, RJ-45, SC, serial, ST, ISDN BRI S/T, ISDN BRI U, and USB.    Features for network routers include stackable, rack mount, LED indicator, integrated firewall, IP addressing, and VPN.  Routers that are stackable conserve space.  Rack mount network routers are designed to be mounted into a rack.  LED indicators are used to indicate the status of the router.  An integrated firewall is used for extra security. IP addressing is used for smarter routing.  A VPN is a connection that has the appearance and many of the advantages of a dedicated link but occurs over a shared network. Using a technique called "tunneling," data packets are transmitted across a public routed network in a private "tunnel" that simulates a point-to-point connection and allows network protocols to traverse incompatible infrastructures.

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Part Numbers for Network Routers