A router is a networking device that operates in Layer 3 of the OSI model and connects two or more packet-switched networks together. It is responsible for forwarding packets by determining the optimal path for data to reach its destination. This process of selecting the best path for data packets is called routing. The router uses routing protocols and algorithms to find the optimal route for the packets. This topic describes routing and how routing protocols operate in Layer 3.

DHCP and DNS are both important networking protocols that play significant roles in facilitating communication and connectivity within computer networks. In this module, you will learn about the popular application layer protocols, DHCP and DNS, and their roles in IP assignment and IP resolution, respectively.

While protocols such as ARP, STP, and DHCP are widely known, protocols such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Secure Shell (SSH), and other commonly known protocols are equally essential for keeping the data flowing in a network. In this module, you will explore these popular networking protocols and understand their role and significance in the networking world.

In computer networks, address translation refers to the conversion of one type of network address into another. This translation helps devices on different networks communicate with each other by converting the source and destination addresses. In this module, you will learn about two of the most popular address translations: Network Address Translation and Port Address Translation.