A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. Routers perform the traffic directing functions on the Internet. A data packet is typically forwarded from one router to another through the networks that constitute the internetwork until it reaches its destination node

A router is connected to two or more data lines from different networks. When a data packet comes in on one of the lines, the router reads the address information in the packet to determine the ultimate destination.

When multiple routers are used in interconnected networks, the routers exchange information about destination addresses using a dynamic routing protocol. Each router builds up a routing table listing the preferred routes between any two systems on the interconnected networks.

Featured technologies

Branch

Optimize branch services on a single platform while delivering an optimal application experience across branch and WAN infrastructure.

4000 Series Integrated Services Routers

• New, converged branch platform with leading network, compute, and WAN services
• Multi-core CPU architecture runs Cisco IOS-XE for better resiliency
• Gigabit forwarding performance with software-upgradable feature licenses
• 1- and 2-rack-unit (RU) modular form factor

800 Series Integrated Services Router

• Provides secure WAN connectivity with desktop form factor
• Ideal for telecommuters and small offices
• Wire-speed performance with secure data services
• Factory-selectable 802.11n access point and 3G WAN options

Network Edge and Aggregation

Transform your Network Edge to deliver high-performance, highly secure, and reliable services to unite campus, data center, and branch networks.

ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services Router

• Industry-leading performance, service capabilities, and reliability
• Ideal for enterprises for private WAN, Internet edge, and WAN aggregation
• Highly secure, high-performance, instant-on services
• Extends network as a platform for cloud computing

Cisco Network Convergence System 5000 Series

• High-performance, 960-Gbps throughput with 1.4 Bpps
• A small footprint with low power consumption
• Support for application hosting, machine-to-machine (M2M) interfacing, telemetry, and flexible package delivery

Service Provider

Differentiate your service portfolio and increase revenues by delivering end-to-end scalable solutions and subscriber-aware services.

Cisco Network Convergence System 6000 Series Routers

• Industry-leading Cisco nPower X1 network processor units (NPUs)
• Hardware-enabled true zero-packet, zero-topology loss (ZPL/ZTL) in Service Software Upgrade (ISSU)
• Ability to scale beyond one petabit in a multi-chassis configuration
• Enhanced operations support

ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers

• Offers nonstop video, enhanced scalability, and reduced carbon footprint
• Ideal for carriers offering residential, mobile and business services
• Offers unique service- and application-level intelligence