Router
- A networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks
- Connected to at least two networks, commonly two LANs, two WANs, or a LAN and its ISP's network
- ISP means Internet Service Provider
- A Layer 3, or Network Layer, device
- Has interfaces that connect to different LANs
Bridge
- A Repeater with the function of reading MAC Addresses
- A Layer 2 device
- Used to interconnect two LANs that use the same protocol
- A two-port device
Two Types of Bridges
- Transparent Bridges
- Source Routing Bridges
Transparent Bridge
- Stations are fully unaware of its existence
- Reconfiguration of the station is unnecessary when the bridge is added or removed from the network
Source Routing Bridge
- The source station performs the routing operation
- The frame specifies which route to follow
Bridge and Router
| Feature | Bridge | Router |
|---|
| OSI Layer | Layer 2, or Data Link | Layer 3, or Network |
| Addressing | MAC Address | IP Address |
| Scope | Connects segments of the same network | Connects different networks |
| Intelligence | Simple, forwards or filters frames | Complex, finds the optimal path |
| Broadcasts | Forwards broadcasts to all segments | Usually blocks broadcasts to save bandwidth |