What does a router identify using its IP address?

A router uses its IP address primarily to identify the connected networks. The IP address serves as a unique identifier that allows the router to determine its location on the network and how to route data packets to the appropriate destination.

When data is transmitted over the internet, it does so in packets that contain both the source and destination IP addresses. The router uses its own IP address to know which networks it is connected to, facilitating the communication between different networks. This means that a router can send data back and forth between various networks and ensure that it reaches its intended recipient.

While other devices like modems and switches play crucial roles in networking, they operate differently and do not rely on an IP address in the same way. For instance, a modem connects a network to the internet, and switch functionality usually pertains to managing traffic within a local area network. In this context, only routers utilize IP addresses to identify and manage connected networks effectively.