Routers are networking devices that transmit data packets from one network to another; when the data packet comes via a single port, the router notices the address information of the data packet and regulates it to its right destination, directing the data packet to the next network using the routing policy. These devices can transmit and receive data packets among different computer networks and can also create network connections between different nodes.
Gateways, in contrast, are pieces of hardware or software used in telecommunication systems that join dissimilar systems. A Gateway can be defined as a network unit enabling a network to communicate with another network with completely different protocols. Gateways also enable a network to establish a connection between a computer system and the internet.
Gateways Vs. Routers:
Routers and Gateways are both data-communicating devices used to transfer data among several computer networks. Yet, there is a major difference between a gateway and router. A Gateway is an incredibly different device from a router because it is a piece of hardware or an electronic component that acts as a Gate among numerous accessible networks. It also plays a vital role as a node that serves as an entry point to other networks.
In comparison, a router is a networking system layer used for controlling, transmitting, and receiving data packets into several computer networks of the same nature. Routers serve two fundamental tasks: controlling traffic between networks by sending data packets to their destined IP addresses and enabling numerous devices to utilize the same internet connection.
Types of Gateways & Routers:
The Gateways are of two types that are,
- Unidirectional Gateways
- Bidirectional Gateways
While Routers are of multiple types, such as,
- Wireless Routers
- Wired Routers
- Core Routers
- Edge Routers
- VPN (Virtual Private Network) Routers
Where Are Gateways and Routers Applicable:
In today’s modern world, devices like Gateways or Routers can be encountered in almost every aspect of life because without these devices; we won’t be able to connect to the internet. Various electronic devices are connected to the internet using Routers and Gateways such as, computers, smartphones tablets, iPads and other electronic machines. These devices are used by small businesses to large industries for the purpose of data communication and internet connectivity. They are typically found in the following:
- Households
- Hospitals
- Telecommunication Industries
- Workplaces of different kinds
- Shopping Malls
- Offices
- Domestic & International Airports
