Routers in a Network: Functions and Importance

Functions of Routers in a Network

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Question

What functions do routers perform in a network? (Choose two)

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D. E. F.

AC

The correct answers are A. packet switching and C. path selection.

Explanation: A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. Routers operate at the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model and use logical addressing (IP addresses) to forward packets between different networks. Here are the two functions that routers perform in a network:

  1. Packet Switching: Routers use packet switching to forward data packets between networks. When a router receives a packet, it examines the packet's destination IP address to determine the best path for the packet to take to reach its destination. The router then forwards the packet to the next router or network segment along the path. This process continues until the packet reaches its final destination.

  2. Path Selection: Routers use routing protocols such as OSPF, BGP, and EIGRP to determine the best path for packets to take through the network. These routing protocols allow routers to exchange information about network topology and available paths, enabling them to choose the most efficient path for each packet. Path selection takes into account factors such as network bandwidth, network congestion, and the cost of each network link.

The other options listed in the question are not functions performed by routers:

B. Access layer security: Access layer security refers to measures taken to secure access to the network by end devices, such as firewalls and authentication mechanisms. Routers may have some security features, but access layer security is not a primary function of routers.

D. VLAN membership assignment: VLAN membership assignment is a function of switches, not routers. Switches use VLANs to separate traffic into different broadcast domains.

E. Bridging between LAN segments: Bridging is a function of switches, not routers. Switches use bridging to forward traffic within a single broadcast domain.

F. Microsegmentation of broadcast domains: Microsegmentation is a function of switches, not routers. Switches use microsegmentation to further separate traffic within a single broadcast domain.