Routers

Gourav Ajay

Department of information technology, Salem University

IT550 Information Technology Architecture and Security

Dr. Weifeng Chen

Due date 10/08/2023

Introduction:

Routers are used to connect multiple networks together and ensure that the data is

transmitted between the networks in an efficient and secure manner. Routers are common in

homes, offices, and other environments where multiple devices may be connected to the internet

or other networks.

How Routers Work:

Routers are devices that connect multiple networks together by sending data packets

between them. When a device sends a request to another device on a different network, the

request is sent to the router. The router then checks its routing table to determine the best path for

the data packet to reach its destination. The router sends the data packet to the next router on the

path until the data reaches its final destination.

Routing tables are mapping those routers use to determine the best path for data to take.

They contain information about the networks that the router is connected to and which network

is the most efficient path to reach a destination network. Routers constantly update their routing

tables to ensure that the data is being sent on the most efficient path.

Routers can be wired or wireless, and depending on the manufacturer, they may have

different features. Some routers have policies, which allow administrators to control which
devices can access certain networks. Other routers may have a firewall that can block certain

types of traffic from entering or leaving the network. (Abbey, n.d.)

Two Routers on the Market Today:

1. Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX200)

The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is a high-performance router designed for homes or small

offices that have multiple devices connected to the network. The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 has

six gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.5G Ethernet port, making it one of the fastest routers on the

market. The router supports Wi-Fi 6, which is the latest Wi-Fi standard and allows devices to

connect to the network at up to 12 Gbps. (Ludlow, 2020)

Pros:

- High Performance. The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is one of the fastest routers on the market.

- Multiple Ethernet ports. The router has six gigabit Ethernet ports and a 2.5G Ethernet port.

- Wi-Fi 6. The router supports Wi-Fi 6, which is the latest Wi-Fi standard and allows devices to

connect to the network at up to 12 Gbps.

Cons:

- Expensive. The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is one of the most expensive routers on the market.
- Complex Set-Up. The Nighthawk AX12 is more complicated to set up and use than other

routers, making it better suited for advanced users.

2. Google Nest WiFi

The Google Nest WiFi is a router designed to provide a strong and reliable internet

connection over a large area. It is a mesh-networking router that allows multiple devices to

connect to the network wirelessly. The Google Nest WiFi comes with two units, one for the main

router, and the other for the wireless node. (techspot, n.d.)

Pros:

- Easy to use. The Google Nest WiFi is easy to set up and use with the Google Home app.

- Strong and reliable signal. The mesh-networking provides a strong and reliable signal

throughout the area covered by the network.

- Serves as a hub for other Google Home devices. The Google Nest WiFi can serve as a hub

for other Google Home devices such as speakers and smart displays.

Cons:

- Limited Ethernet ports. The Google Nest WiFi only has two Ethernet ports, which can limit

the number of devices that can be connected to the network.

- Not the fastest. The Google Nest WiFi is not the fastest router on the market, making it better

suited for smaller homes or offices.

Conclusion:

Routers are essential devices for connecting multiple networks together and routing data

between them. They come in many different types and sizes, depending on the needs of the user.

The Netgear Nighthawk AX12 is a high-performance router designed for advanced users or

small offices that have a large number of devices connected to the network. The Google Nest

WiFi is a mesh-networking router designed for home users who want a strong and reliable signal

over a large area. Both routers have pros and cons, and the choice of which to use will depend on

the needs of the user.

 References

STL Tech. (2021). What are routers in networking? STL Tech.

https://stl.tech/blog/what-are-routers-in-networking/

TechSpot. (n.d.). Google Nest WiFi (2020) Review. TechSpot.

https://www.techspot.com/products/routers/google-nest-wifi.211268/

Trusted Reviews. (n.d.). Netgear Nighthawk AX12 (RAX200) review.

https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/netgear-nighthawk-rax200