The packet moving data from one network to another contains details of the network´s location.

The first part of the IP address is used to locate a particular network.

Every computer connected to the internet has an Internet Protocol (IP) address.

Routers are hardware devices that read address information to work out the last destination of the packet.

They can be used to join many wired or wireless networks together.

They act as gateways to allow computer networks to connect to the internet using a single connection.

Connect directly to the motherboard and have external sockets so computer can connect to a network by cables.

Prepares data for sending, sends the data and controls the flow of data from the computer to the transmission media.

Enables computers on a network to share files and hardware (scanners).

Contains connection points (ports). If a packet is sent to one port, it is transferred to the other ports.

Sends a packet of data only to the computer it is meant for.

Used to connect LANs together. When one LAN sends a message, all devices on LAN receive the message (increases amount of data flowing on LAN).