What is the difference between a router and a switch?

A router and a switch are both networking devices, but they serve different purposes.

A router is a device that connects multiple networks together and forwards data packets between them. It operates at the network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and uses IP addresses to determine the best path for data transmission. Routers are responsible for directing traffic, ensuring data reaches its intended destination, and providing security features such as firewalls.

On the other hand, a switch is a device that connects multiple devices within a network. It operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and uses MAC addresses to forward data packets to the correct destination device within the same network. Switches are responsible for creating and managing local area networks (LANs), improving network performance by reducing collisions, and providing high-speed data transfer between devices.

In summary, the main difference between a router and a switch is that a router connects multiple networks together and forwards data between them, while a switch connects multiple devices within a network and forwards data within that network.