Question

what you know about a router and a switch. In your own words, explain the purpose of a router and a switch, why do you think Cisco devices are the best for inter-networking and who are some of Cisco competitors.

Answer 1

Router: It is a networking device that forwards data packets along networks. It is connected to at least two networks commonly two LANs or WANs or a LAN and its ISP's network. A router has number of interfaces by which it can connect to a number of host systems.It is device similar to switch that routes data packet based on IP addresses. It is mainly a network layer device.

Switch: It is also a networking device that connects other devices together on a computer network by using packet switching to receive and forward data to destination device. A switch is a multiport bridge.A network switch also connects computers to each other, like a hub. It does not broadcast the packet to all computers as a hub does which means bandwidth is not shared and makes the network much more efficient. A switch is a data link layer device.

purpose of router: Router connects multiple networks. Router makes sure that data is directed to the correct destination.The router prevents data from going where it is not permitted.

purpose of switch: Switch provide large number of ports for cable connections.It is used to connect multiple host. Switch forwards a message to a specific host. Switch can manage traffic. Switch divides a LAN into multiple collision domains with independent broadband, hence increasing LAN bandwidth.

Cisco devices are the best for inter-networking because cisco can provide end-to-end network composed of systems specifically designed to address the unique needs of each place in the network, connected by a common infrastructure and a common operating system and manageable from a central location as a single, cohesive entity. Cisco applies this same broad view to network management, providing tools to manage the network as a whole. Cisco understands the relationship between all elements of the network.It designs and develops products, technologies, and solutions that provide business benefits across the entire network.

Some Cisco competitors are:

1. Hewlett Packard

2. Aruba

3. Arista

4. VmWare

5. Riverbed

6. Dell

7. Polycom

8. IBM

9. Microsoft

10. Juniper

Answer 2

A router and a switch are both networking devices used to facilitate communication within a network, but they serve different purposes.

1. Router: A router is a network device that operates at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. Its main purpose is to connect different networks together and direct data packets between them. Routers use routing tables and protocols to determine the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination across multiple networks. They are responsible for making decisions based on IP addresses and are essential for connecting to the internet and other remote networks.

2. Switch: A switch is a network device that operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. Its primary function is to connect devices within a local area network (LAN) and forward data packets between them based on their MAC addresses. Switches use MAC address tables to efficiently deliver data only to the intended recipient, reducing unnecessary network traffic and improving network performance.

Cisco is well-regarded for its networking devices, and there are several reasons why they are considered among the best for inter-networking:

• Performance and Reliability: Cisco devices are known for their high performance and reliability, ensuring that networks can handle heavy traffic loads without downtime.

• Robust Feature Set: Cisco offers a wide range of features in their devices, including advanced routing protocols, security capabilities, Quality of Service (QoS) options, and more, making them suitable for complex and diverse network environments.

• Industry Experience: Cisco has been a major player in the networking industry for decades and has a deep understanding of networking technologies and requirements.

• Extensive Support and Training: Cisco provides extensive support, documentation, and training resources for their products, helping network administrators and engineers effectively manage and troubleshoot their networks.

Some of Cisco's competitors in the networking equipment market include:

• Juniper Networks

• Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE)

• Arista Networks

• Huawei Technologies

• Extreme Networks

• Dell Technologies (through its acquisition of Dell Networking)

Each of these companies offers its own set of networking solutions and competes with Cisco in various segments of the market. The choice of networking equipment often depends on the specific needs and requirements of the organization's network infrastructure.

Answer 3

1. Router: A router is a networking device that connects different networks together and forwards data packets between them. Its main purpose is to determine the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination across the interconnected networks. Routers operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model, making decisions based on IP addresses. They help in directing traffic efficiently and securely across the internet and private networks.

Routers are essential for enabling communication between different networks, such as connecting a home network to the internet or linking various office locations within a company. They provide functions like routing tables, network address translation (NAT), and firewall capabilities to ensure data reaches its intended destination and maintain network security.

2. Switch: A switch is another networking device used to connect multiple devices within a local network. Its primary purpose is to create a network segment and efficiently manage data traffic between devices connected to it. Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, using MAC addresses to forward data to the correct device within the local network.

Switches are vital for creating a local area network (LAN), such as in homes, offices, or data centers. They offer high-speed and dedicated connections between devices within the same network, which results in faster data transmission and less network congestion compared to using hubs or repeaters.

As for Cisco devices, Cisco is a well-known and respected brand in the networking industry. They are considered one of the best for inter-networking due to several reasons:

• Robust and Reliable: Cisco devices are known for their durability and reliability. They are designed to handle heavy network traffic and perform consistently under demanding conditions.

• Feature-Rich: Cisco offers a wide range of features and functionalities in their networking devices, providing administrators with advanced tools for managing networks efficiently.

• Industry Experience: Cisco has been a leading player in the networking industry for many years and has a wealth of experience in designing, manufacturing, and supporting networking equipment.

• Extensive Support: Cisco provides excellent technical support and resources to assist customers in setting up and maintaining their networks.

However, Cisco does have competitors in the networking market, including:

• Juniper Networks: Known for their high-performance routers, switches, and security devices, especially in the service provider and data center space.

• Arista Networks: Specializes in high-performance data center switches, particularly for cloud and large-scale network deployments.

• Huawei: A global networking equipment manufacturer offering a wide range of products, including routers, switches, and telecommunications equipment.

• HPE (Hewlett Packard Enterprise): Provides networking solutions for enterprises, including switches and wireless access points.

• Dell EMC: Offers networking solutions for businesses of all sizes, including switches and network security devices.

Each of these competitors has its strengths and focus areas, catering to different market segments and customer needs. The choice of networking equipment will depend on the specific requirements and scale of the network deployment.