Which device primarily forwards packets between networks by evaluating IP addresses?

Which device primarily forwards packets between networks by evaluating IP addresses?

• A. Switch
• B. Router
• C. Bridge
• D. Hub

Answer: (B)

Packets moving between different networks are routed at the network layer. A router uses the destination IP address in the packet and consults routing tables to choose the best next hop toward that destination, then forwards the packet accordingly. This ability to connect multiple networks and move traffic across them is what distinguishes a router from other devices. Switches and bridges operate at the data link layer, using MAC addresses to forward frames within a single local network, while hubs simply repeat signals to all ports without making forwarding decisions. So, the device that forwards packets between networks by evaluating IP addresses is the router.

Packets moving between different networks are routed at the network layer. A router uses the destination IP address in the packet and consults routing tables to choose the best next hop toward that destination, then forwards the packet accordingly. This ability to connect multiple networks and move traffic across them is what distinguishes a router from other devices. Switches and bridges operate at the data link layer, using MAC addresses to forward frames within a single local network, while hubs simply repeat signals to all ports without making forwarding decisions. So, the device that forwards packets between networks by evaluating IP addresses is the router.