Which device is typically responsible for routing packets between different networks?

Which device is typically responsible for routing packets between different networks?

• A. Modem
• B. Switch
• C. Router
• D. Bridge

Answer: (C)

Routing between different networks relies on a device that understands network layer addressing and can forward packets toward their destination across multiple networks. That role is filled by a router. Routers read the destination IP address, consult routing tables or protocols, and forward the packet to the next hop along the best path, enabling communication across subnets and beyond your local network. A modem connects to your internet service provider and doesn’t route between networks by itself. A switch operates within a single local network, forwarding frames using MAC addresses at the data link layer. A bridge also works at the data link layer to extend a network but doesn’t route between separate networks.

Routing between different networks relies on a device that understands network layer addressing and can forward packets toward their destination across multiple networks. That role is filled by a router. Routers read the destination IP address, consult routing tables or protocols, and forward the packet to the next hop along the best path, enabling communication across subnets and beyond your local network.

A modem connects to your internet service provider and doesn’t route between networks by itself. A switch operates within a single local network, forwarding frames using MAC addresses at the data link layer. A bridge also works at the data link layer to extend a network but doesn’t route between separate networks.