A router is a networking device which is used to route and forward information in a network.
Router differs from network hub as a network hub does not do any routing, instead every
packet it receives on one network line gets forwarded to all the other network lines.

Home Routers

Home routers are frequently used in homes to connect to a broadband service, such as IP over cable or DSL. A home router may allow connectivity to an enterprise via a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Home routers use port address translation in addition to routing. Instead of connecting local computers to the remote network directly, a home router makes multiple local computers appear to be a single computer.

Enterprise Routers

All sizes of routers may be found inside enterprises. The most powerful routers tend to be found in ISPs and academic & research facilities. Large businesses may also need powerful routers.

A three-layer model is in common use, not all of which need be present in smaller networks.

Access Router

Access routers,including SOHO, are located at customer sites such as branch offices that do not need hierarchic