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Guide: What is the Difference Between Routers and Switches?

Updated: Mar 20

Routers, Switches, and Wireless Access Points (WAPs) in Enterprise IT Networks in New Jersey


what is the difference between routers and switches
What is the difference between routers and switches?

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Intro: Guide to Routers and Switches

In the ever-evolving world of enterprise IT networking, being able to comprehend the core components of connectivity and communication is paramount. Often deployed together to create a seamless enterprise IT network solution, in this guide to routers and switches we will explore how both pieces of hardware perform two distinctly different roles.


  1. Switches work at Layer 2 (The Data Link Layer) helping to direct data within a Local Network (LAN) get to the correct device using each device’s unique hardware ID known as Media Access Control (MAC) addresses

  2. Routers work at Layer 3 (The Network Layer) helping your organizations LAN connect with LANs outside of your organization and around the internet by using unique LAN IDs known as Internet Protocol (IP) addresses


Routers and Switches and Cloud Services


Cloud computing adds an extra layer of complexity. It requires routers and switches to collaborate to ensure data between LANs and cloud-based services stay fast and secure. For Information Technology Directors and System Admins in the world of education systems or government services in New Jersey, understanding these foundational components is essential in building robust, efficient networks that scale with the demands of your organization, while remaining safe.


Below is a quick guide to routers and switches.


Routers vs. Switches: A Quick Comparison Guide

Feature

Router

Switch

Primary Function

Routes data between different networks.

Directs data within a single network.

Layer

Layer 3 (Network Layer)

Layer 2 (Data Link Layer)

Routing Decision

Uses IP addresses to determine path.

Uses a Media Access Control (MAC) addresses to forward frames.

Network Size

Connects multiple networks (LANs, WANs).

Operates within a Local Area Network (LAN).

Performance Impact

Can affect overall network latency.

High-speed data forwarding within LAN.

Connection Type

Can connect to the internet or other networks.

Connects devices (PCs, printers, etc.) within a network.

Usage Example

Connecting an office network to the internet.

Connecting computers in a local office or classroom.


What About the Role of Wireless Access Points in IT Networks?


Wireless Access points (WAPs) are pieces of hardware that enable wireless devices (laptops, smartphones, etc) to connect to a wired network via Wi-Fi. 


In most modern enterprise IT network environments—including K-12 educational institutions and government offices—access points are designed and integrated into network infrastructure, working with switches to ensure reliable, consistent data flow no matter where you are.

 

Think of it in these steps, starting with people at your company or organization:

  1. Access points make sure employees or students can connect to your organization’s network via authorized devices, regardless of location.


  2. Once on the network, switches can distribute data to individual devices within that network, helping your students, staff, and employees seamlessly collaborate and share information.


  3. A router then takes your organization’s local IT network and gives it access to the entire internet––empowering your network users to safely connect with cloud service providers and LANs around the world.


    enterprise it network setup showing routers and switches diagram
    IT Network Set Up Diagram and Guide


Now, how can you protect your data in the cloud? We encourage you to click on the hyperlink to learn more about proactive steps to ensure enterprise network security in the cloud.


Conclusion


In today’s world, when designing an enterprise IT network it is necessary to consider both wired and wireless components. While routers and switches are the backbone of an organization’s IT network, access points expand a network’s reach and empower educational systems and government agencies with reliable and secure coverage regardless of where you are.


Together, these components are the building blocks of enterprise connection, creating high-performance IT networks that support fixed and mobile devices in environments where seamless communication is critical.



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Comments

  • How can you protect your data in the cloud?
    There are many ways to ensure your data is safe and protected in the cloud. Here are five ways to protect your data: Always implement strong access controls Encrypt data at both rest and in transit Leverage a big-name cloud security platform (we suggest Palo Alto) to monitor for suspicious activity Classify your data based on sensitivity and priority Keep security configurations up-to-date and regularly review activity
  • VoIP refers to ... ?
    VoIP refers to Voice over Internet Protocol. Through VoIP technology a municipality or campus can empower users to make and receive phone calls over the internet instead of traditional phone line. VoIP can help cut costs and improve productivity via unified communications.
  • What is a benefit of using cloud computing in networking?
    Cloud computing in networking offers more than one benefit. Benefits of cloud computing in networking include scalability, flexibility, cost-efficiency, speed, and autonomy.
  • How to design an enterprise network
    To design an enterprise network, an enterprise network solutions company like R&D Data Products will: Take time to identify the campus or company's requirements Analyze and assess an organization's current network infrastructure Determine the network topology, or the physical and logical way in which enterprise network nodes connect and data flows choose Plan IP addressing Decide on the most appropriate hardware and software for a campus or organization's needs Implement robust security measures to prevent hacks Ensure network scalability and data redundancy for future growth
  • What is an enterprise network?
    An enterprise network is an organization's IT network infrastructure. An enterprise network connects users, devices, and applications, enabling communication across both cloud and physical, local data center systems. Unlike the internet, with an enterprise network an IT team, Network Operator, or equivalent can ensure security and network reliability by controlling which users and devices have network authorization. Enterprise networks can include both physical and virtual components: LANs: Connect local devices WANs: Link LANs to the cloud Routers, switches, and servers: Facilitate data transfers Firewalls: Monitor and control traffic VPNs: Encrypt network data TLS encryption: Secures data in transit
  • What is the difference between routers and switches?
    The difference between routers and switches is that routers connect networks together, while switches are needed to connect the devices within a network.
  • What Is Zero Trust (ZTN) Cybersecurity?
    Unlike traditional security models that assume trust within a network, Zero Trust operates on the principle of “Never Trust, Always Verify.” Every access request is authenticated, authorized, and continuously monitored. Key Principles of Zero Trust are: Identity & Access Management (IAM) – Verify users before granting access. Least Privilege Access – Minimize user permissions to reduce risks. Micro-Segmentation – Isolate network segments to limit lateral movement. Continuous Monitoring & Threat Detection – Ensure real-time security enforcement.
  • How Ransomware Works
    Ransomware is malware that encrypts critical files and demands payment for decryption. Attacks often originate from: Phishing emails and malicious links Compromised user credentials Unpatched software vulnerabilities Once a system is infected, attackers demand payment, threatening to delete or leak sensitive data if the ransom isn’t paid.
  • How VoIP Reduces Communication Costs
    Switching to VoIP eliminates long-distance charges, costly hardware, and excessive maintenance fees associated with traditional phone systems. Key Cost Benefits: Lower Monthly Service Fees – Reduce telephony costs by up to 50% compared to traditional landlines. No Costly Hardware Upgrades – Use existing internet connections instead of investing in expensive PBX systems. Free Internal Calls – Staff can communicate between locations without incurring extra charges. Flexible Subscription Plans – Pay only for the features and users you need.
  • What are VoIP security best practices?
    Securing your VoIP system is more than setting up firewalls. SLED organizations should consider a layered approach: Top Security Practices: Encrypt VoIP Traffic – Protect calls with end-to-end encryption (e.g., SRTP/TLS). Secure SIP Gateways & Session Border Controllers – Prevent unauthorized access and mitigate DDoS attacks. Implement Network Segmentation – Isolate VoIP traffic from general internet traffic. Strong Authentication & Access Controls – Require strong passwords and restrict access to VoIP systems. Monitor & Audit Call Logs – Detect suspicious usage or fraud.
  • Does VoIP help with school safety and government safety?
    In critical situations like active threats, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, VoIP systems can play a key role in keeping people connected, informed, and safe. VoIP Emergency Features for SLED: E911 Location Services – Accurately transmit caller location to emergency services. Intercom & Paging Integration – Make site-wide or zone-specific announcements. Lockdown Alerts – Send automated messages through multiple channels. Voicemail-to-Email – Capture critical information even when lines are busy.

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