Core router definition
A core router is a high-capacity router used in the central part of large networks. Its main role is to quickly and reliably transport data between different parts of the network. These routers play a crucial role in the infrastructure of the Internet, large-scale enterprise, ISP networks.
See also: internetworking, wan, intranet, history of the internet
Key points about core routers:
High-speed. Core routers support fast data transmission, often at speeds of 10Gbps or more. It might also skip some features found in other routers, like NAT, to prioritize speed.
Reliable. The routers are designed with redundancy to ensure continuous operation.
Routing protocols. They use advanced protocols, like BGP, to decide the best paths for data.
Scalable Core routers are scalable to handle increasing traffic loads. This is achieved by adding more interfaces or by linking multiple core routers.
In network hierarchy:
- Access routers: Connect end-users to the network.
- Distribution routers: Gather data from access routers.
- Core routers: Handle the main data transport across the network's backbone.
