Routers and switches primarily run networking code. This type of code is specifically designed to manage network traffic, route data, enforce security policies, and utilize various networking protocols.
Here’s a brief overview of how different types of code apply to routers and switches:
-
Networking Code: This includes the protocols and algorithms that handle the routing and switching of data packets. Examples of such protocols include:
- Internet Protocol (IP)
- Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
- Open Shortest Path First (OSPF)
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
-
Back End Code: While not as common as networking code, routers and switches do have back-end functionalities that include managing device configurations, logging, and sometimes even web-based management interfaces.
-
Quality Assurance Code: Although quality assurance practices are essential in the development lifecycle of networking devices, the term "quality assurance code" typically refers to testing scripts and frameworks rather than the operational code that runs on networking hardware.
-
Front End Code: This is generally irrelevant in the context of how routers and switches operate. Front-end code usually pertains to web applications and user interfaces, which are not a primary concern for the core functionalities of routers and switches.
In summary, the primary focus for routers and switches is on networking code, enabling them to perform their essential roles in network communication.