router
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router
A device in a computer network that forwards data packets between different networks. In the home, it connects the local network (LAN) with the internet (WAN).
Ich muss den Router neu starten, weil das Internet nicht funktioniert.
I need to restart the router because the internet isn't working.
'Router' is a modern loanword from English and is used in German in the same way for the network device. It is used in the context of internet, Wi-Fi, and technology.
Der Techniker hat heute den neuen Router installiert.
The technician installed the new router today.
In everyday language, der Router (the router) is often combined with certain verbs. The most common are 'den Router neu starten' (to restart the router), 'den Router einrichten' (to set up the router), or 'sich mit dem Router verbinden' (to connect to the router).
Kannst du dich mit dem neuen Router verbinden?
Can you connect to the new router?
The instruction 'den Router neu starten' (to restart the router) is the standard solution for many internet problems in Germany. This means briefly unplugging the device from the power supply and plugging it back in.
Das Internet geht schon wieder nicht. Hast du versucht, den Router neu zu starten?
The internet isn't working again. Have you tried restarting the router?
switch
'der Router' and 'der Switch' are both devices in a computer network. That is why they are easily confused. A router connects different networks, for example the home network with the internet. A switch connects several devices within the same network, for example computers, printers, and servers in an office. In everyday life at home, 'Router' often means the device for Wi-Fi and internet. 'Switch' is more precise when it is only about distributing data between devices in the local network.
Nach dem Umzug musste Max den Router neu einrichten.
After moving, Max had to set up the router again.
Im Büro verbindet ein Switch alle Computer mit dem Firmennetz.
In the office, a switch connects all the computers to the company network.