What is Brouter in Networking
Brouter in networking is a combination of Bridge and a Router, hence it is called as a Brouter. It provides functions of a bridge and a router so it can operate at the data link and network layers of OSI Model. Brouter connects networks which use different protocols. It can be programmed to work only as a bridge or only as a router. When it is configured as a bridge, it forwards data packets to appropriate segment using a specific protocol. When it is configured as a router, it routes the data packets to the appropriate network using a routed protocol such as IP.
Brouters in networking are pretty rare. Instead, most brouters are simply routers that have been configured to also function as a bridge. The main function of a bridge is to connect two different LAN segments using the same protocol. A router, on the other hand, used to route the packets in a network.
Advantages of Brouter in Networking
- It works on Both LAN and WAN
- NAT can be configured which hides the real IP Address of your internal network.
- Supports packet filtering.
- Packet Switching.
- Can be used to separate a LAN into segments.
- Allows you to set the best path for data packets.
- Reduce network traffic.
Disadvantages of Brouter in Networking
- It is more expensive then hub switch and router.
- It is complex to manage.
Difference between Bridge and Router in networking
http://www.learnabhi.com/difference-between-bridge-and-router/
