Features of Routing
A network-layer protocol consists of a network-addressing plan plus a set of procedures performed to deliver data to a destination network address. Routers forward data to its network destination, traversing multiple links along the way.
Several vendors have designed successful proprietary network-layer protocols. IBM SNA, Digital Equipment Corporation's DECnet, Novell's routable IPX/SPX, and routable AppleTalk all have had many loyal adherents. In the end, however, IP, an open standard, won out. Because there is a large installed base of equipment that uses legacy protocols, though, many of today's routers forward one or more of the proprietary traffic flows as well as IP traffic.
Router Benefits
Routers provide total ...
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