WAN Edge Routers

- Overview

An edge router (WAN router or border router) is a specialized router located at a network boundary that enables an internal network to connect to external networks. They are primarily used at two demarcation points: the wide area network (WAN) and the internet.

A WAN edge router is a device that forwards data packets between WAN locations and connects an internal network to external networks. It acts as an entry and exit point for network traffic. 

A WAN edge router is a device that routes data packets between WAN locations, giving an enterprise access to a carrier network.

- Key Features of WAN Edge Routers

A WAN Edge Router is a specialized router positioned at the boundary of a company's internal network and a Wide Area Network (WAN), essentially acting as the gateway to connect a local network to the broader internet or other external networks. 

It's often referred to simply as an edge router and is responsible for managing data traffic between the internal network and the WAN. 

Key features about WAN Edge Routers:

• Function: They route data packets between a company's internal network and external networks like the internet or other corporate locations across a WAN.
• Location: Situated at the "edge" of the network where the internal LAN meets the external WAN.
• Security role: Often play a crucial role in network security by filtering traffic and applying access controls before data enters the internal network.

Few more advanced features with WAN Edge Routers:

• SD-WAN integration: With the rise of Software-Defined Wide Area Networks (SD-WAN), many WAN Edge Routers are now software-based, allowing for dynamic routing and flexible network management.
  
• Cloud connectivity: Modern WAN Edge Routers facilitate seamless connections to cloud services and applications.
  
• Advanced features: May include features like VPNs, firewalls, load balancing, and quality of service (QoS) to manage network traffic effectively.