Router Vs Gateway – A Comparison Guide
Ever wondered how two of the most common networking devices compare. Take a look as we look at the differences between a router and gateway and review some of the best ones in the market.
Many people are confused by the differences and functionalities between a router and gateway.While these devices are totally different in functionality and operation, they are both needed for smooth working of the network.A gateway, also called a protocol converter is a network device that transfers packets of data through the network using different protocols. This means if two networks in different protocols want to communicate, both need to have a gateway that will act as entry and exit channels for the computers to communicate. A router on the other hand is what we have in many homes today. It is a network entity used to connect multiple networks together and regulates the traffic between them. It is very similar to a switch. A router works simply by reading the address of the incoming data packet and the destination address then routes it to the shortest path.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between a Routerand aGateway?
Devices |
Router |
Gateway |
Types |
Data packets are switched to the right addresses |
Physical and web based |
Special features |
DCHP server, NAT, static routing, Mac Address, wireless networking |
Protocol converter, network access control |
OSI Layer |
Transport, Network layers |
Cuts through all seven layers |
Data filtration |
Yes |
Yes |
Dynamic routing |
Supported |
Not supported |
Product |
Router vs. Gateway – How do these devices compare?
Functionality and use
A router and gateway are used for different purposes in a network. First, a router is used for communication between multiple networks and regulates the traffic between them. It works by reading the IP address of the incoming packet of data and routes them to their destination address on the local area network (LAN). In addition, a router operates between layer 3 and 4, network and transport layers respectively. Routers also connect WAN and LAN making them more versatile in their functionality. Gateways on the other hand is a protocol converter. What this is means is that it can connect to computers on different networks and protocols. This is done provided all the computers are connected to a gateway. A gateway connects and helps different systems communicate. It operates across all the seven layers of the OSI model. A gateway is a wonderful choice for large scale networking such as in schools.
Security
When it comes to security in these devices, a gateway is tailored more for security and this is solely due to its functionality. A gateway is used as the entry and exit point of two or more networks. Because of this, gateways are usually secured from viruses since viruses can easily get into the internal network. Routers are completely different since if one router gets suffers a security breach, you can simple remove it from the setup and the other routers will reroute to use the shortest path possible to transport data to its destination. If you do this with a gateway, the whole network collapses. Gateways are therefore more secure than routers.
Wireless connectivity
Wireless connectivity refers to whether the device supports wireless WLAN and WPS connection. A router as we know supports wireless connections through the WLAN and WPS functionality. This is the reason they are widely used in homes today. Furthermore, they also support wired connection as they come with Ethernet and USB ports. Gateways however do not supports wireless connection and this is because of how they work and security. Computers can therefore be connected to a gateway only through Ethernet ports.
Configuration
Configuration involves how the device is set up to works as it should be. Routers are automatically configured using routing tables. Routing tables show a list of IP addresses that the router can use to transport the data packets. Gateways on the other hand are configured using their two IP addresses: the internal IP of the device and the external IP of the network.
Network Setup
For better understanding of the network setup, we’ll use an example. Say you have two different networks (Network A and B) with 10 connected computers in each network. For ten computers on Network A to communicate, they will need a router and gateway will not be required anywhere. However, if a computer from Network A want to communicate or send data with another computer on Network B, a gateway is needed for this communication channel. In fact, two gateways are required here – with one in each network. Gateways offer external communication while routers offer internal communication between devices in the same network.
Router vs Gateway – A Comparison Overview
Router
Routers are the most common networking devices today due to the growth of home internet all over the world. A router is used for transmission of data within a network by the different connected devices. They provide seamless connection throughout and offer both wireless and wired connectivity. On top of this, routers are used to provide internet connection over relatively long distances. When it comes to wired connections, routers are usually equipped with different types of ports with the main one being LAN Ethernet Ports. Wireless connectivity are made possible by WPS and WLAN.This is the main reason they are used in homes, schools, restaurants and more. Lastly, work by finding the shortest routes and using them to send and receive data packets. The following are two of the best routers you can buy today.
Google Nest Wi-Fi
- Maximum Range : 2200 Sq Ft
- This product includes one router unit.
Google provides some of the best products today and the Google Nest is one of them. The Google Nest Wi-Fi is a small white router that provides high speeds and provides superb range. The router is a simultaneous dual band that supports both 2.4 and 5 GHz bands. It is a router made especially made for homes. It features a simple yet gorgeous design with a cylindrical shape and white matte finish on top. The router also comes with additional features such as inbuilt security, privacy control and Google Assistant for voice commands. We especially love the smart inbuilt speaker as this adds to the versatility of the router. With two RJ45 Ethernet ports, you can connect devices such as desktops that may not supports WLAN. However, it is important to remember that this is an entry level router that stands out because of its simplicity and outstanding performance. If you’re a gamer or stream a lot in 4K, the better choice would be the following router.
Netgear Nighthawk XR500
- Minimize ping and maximize performance with four 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports for lag free, wired...
- Amp up your Wi-Fi with AC2600 dual band router that delivers blazing fast speeds up to 2.6 Gbps
The Netgear Nighthawk router is geared towards a more specific audience: gamers. This is because the Nighthawk XR500 provides very high maximum throughput speeds. In fact, it is rated at 2.6 Gbps which is quite high. The high performance reflects on the price tag and you’ll have to part with a few hundred bucks to afford this router. In addition, the router’s design matches its functionality. It features a stylish future-looking design that resembles a space ship. At the back, the router is fitted with four external antennas for fast connections. On top of that, there are five ports (four Ethernet LAN and one WAN Ethernet) and a dual core processor.
Gateways
A gateway is a networking device that acts as a protocol converter. If there are two computers on different networks that want to communicate, a gateway is connected to the two networks. Without a gateway, the computers would not be able to communicate. A physical gateway can also be referred to as a firewall as it provides protection for the connected devices. The following are some of the best gateways today.
Firewalla
- COMPATIBILITY: This is * Firewalla RED * (NOT THE FIREWALLA BLUE), The IPS functionality is limited to...
- COMPLETE CYBERSECURITY PROTECTION - Firewalla's unique intrusion prevention system (IDS and IPS) protects...
One of the simplest and smallest gateways we have today is the firewall gateway. It is a small red cube shaped device that works well for homes and businesses. The firewall is mainly known for its free use and zero monthly fee for use. Firewalla supports IPS functionality that is limited to 100 MBs. As a security device, it is equipped with intrusion detection systems, antivirus protection and antimalware, phishing ad hacking protection. The gateway features a parental control feature that offers service such as guest networking, family protect and setting time limits on for the little ones.
CUJO Smart Security Gateway
- 24/7 INTERNET SECURITY. CUJO AI will secure all devices connected to your WiFi router. AI algorithms...
- PEACE OF MIND ONLINE. A hacker can lure you into visiting a malicious site and gain access to your email...
If you’re looking for a gateway with smart capabilities, this is the option for you. The CUJO firewall is a 2nd generation firewall with free subscription and smart abilities. It works by plugging it into your router. This protects your router and all connected devices from malware, phishing attacks and more.
Model |
Google Nest Wi-Fi |
Firewalla |
Ports |
2 |
2 |
Speed |
300 Mbps |
100 Mbps |
Special features |
Can act as Wi-Fi extender, parental control |
Deep Packet Inspection, Intrusion Detection, antivirus and malware protection, parental control |
Color |
White |
Red, Blue |
Availability |
Conclusion
Whether you need a router or gateway, the most important thing to always consider are your needs. The Google Nest is a better router overall as it offers decent performance and costs less while the Firewalla is a much more balanced gateway.
