Function of the router and Cisco router
A router is a hardware networking device, a combination of hardware and software that performs the task of routing and forwarding information across the network. This “information” is composed IP “packets”, digital snippets of data. On the internet, all information is directed to and fro by routers.
If in simple words we describe then routers are basically one kind of PC which have similar components like the Pc. Apart from motherboard, RAM and operating systems the only thing which differs router from pc is its controlling or routing traffic among computer networks. In other words we can describe routers functionalities are the smart network devices.
Cisco router is the perfect example to describe the advantages of router systems. CPU works in the same manner as it works for a PC. There are few major internal components of a Cisco router such as CPU, RAM, NVRAM, Flash, ROM, Console and interfaces. CPU is working as same as it does with PC, It only executes any command which is given by an operating system. For Cisco routers multiple processors you can add more CPUs at the time of need.
The RAM’s functionalities are used to hold the ARP cache, store routing tables, buffer information packets and it also holds queues. When you switch on the unit power, RAM utilizes its temporary memory for configuration router but at the next moment it loses contents when you power off or even restart the unit. The NVRAM works just opposite of the RAM, it holds your configuration files from the starting point and won’t lose any files if the unit power is turn off or restart due to any disturbances.
In Cisco router flash memory is the most important part which holds the IOS image file and all the backups. In flash memory everything is saved and kept within secure places, whether if you mess some important aspects you can still get back at Cisco router. Flash ROM can be easily upgraded at Cisco routers. With the help of ROM you can hold all your information regarding hardware components and this aspect can be upgraded only by installing a new chip. By removing the old chip and installing the new one you will get new version of IOS due to the up gradation of ROM.
Cisco Systems is the leading manufacturer of network routers in terms of market share. Over the past 10 years, the network router has rapidly evolved from a device designed to connect networks into an integrated services router, which is capable of many functions beyond simple network routing. Increasingly, Cisco’s customers are installing integrated services routers which can deliver data, video, voice and internet access, wireless, and many other applications.
At a basic level, a Cisco Router connects two or more logical network subnets, which do not always map 1-1 to the physical interfaces of the router. Many companies can take advantage of Cisco’s integrated network router concept. Cisco Routers are highly secure, flexible, and built for compatability with future technologies.
A Cisco integrated services router allows users to take advantage of numerous technologies such as voice, wireless, and advanced security systems while ensuring quality of service (QOS) prioritization that their network applications demand. Because the network services are built in or can be easily added to the integrated services network router, companies can install one sophisticated device rather than purchase different networking products to provide each individual function.
A Cisco router provides all employees, even those at branch offices or remote locations such as a home offices or hotel rooms, the same transparent access to critical business applications such unified communications, VOIP and video conferencing. Cisco modular router solutions allow you to install the features you need for a particular office, and upgrade equipment when needs change or an office expands.