router

In networking, routers are devices that are used to forward data packets between networks. They connect two or more networks together and count on routing tables to determine which path data pockets should take in networks. Routers thus enable efficient communication among devices on different networks, for instance, communications between devices on local networks and the internet. They are usually connected to at least two networks whether two LAN or WAN and decide which data packet should be forwarded and to which network based on the routing table and IP address. The routing table contains information to decide the best path for data packets to take on the basis of the destination address, the distance to the destination, and the status of various paths.