router

An electronic device that connects two networks, it's what connects a local network to an ISP in order to get online access. In a packet-switching network such as the Internet, it is one of the two most basic devices, with a host. Routers receive packets of data, filter them, and forward them to a final destination using the best "route."

Historical perspective: Cisco was founded in 1984 by a group of computer scientists from Stanford University. The company is prominent in advancing the development of IP, the basic language for communicating over the Internet (and in private networks). Cisco creates a range of products and technologies, including advanced routing and switching, voice and video over IP, optical networking, wireless, storage networking, security, broadband, and content networking. Led by CEO John Chambers, and later Chuck Robbins, Cisco is recognized as an innovator in how business is conducted online. The company has been a pioneer in using the Internet to provide customer support, sell products, offer training, and manage finances, and enable other business leaders in transforming their companies into e-businesses or cloud computing companies. To bolster education around the world, the company has founded Cisco Academies in 128 countries, dedicated to teaching people to design, build, and maintain computer networks.