Networking Interview Question: Difference Between Router and Switch

In a computer network, a router and a switch are two essential devices that serve different purposes.

Router

A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It operates at the network layer of the OSI model and uses IP addresses to determine the best path for data to travel. Routers are used to connect multiple networks together and facilitate communication between devices on different networks.

Switch

A switch, on the other hand, is a device that connects multiple devices within the same network. It operates at the data link layer of the OSI model and uses MAC addresses to direct data to the appropriate destination. Switches are commonly used in local area networks (LANs) to provide efficient and direct communication between devices on the same network segment.

Differences and Uses

So, to summarize:

• Routers connect multiple networks together, while switches connect devices within the same network.
• Routers use IP addresses for routing, whereas switches use MAC addresses for forwarding data.
• Routers are used to enable communication between different networks, while switches facilitate communication within a single network.

Understanding the difference between routers and switches is crucial for designing and managing efficient computer networks.