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1. Repeaters (Operate at the OSI Physical Layer).2. Bridges (Operate at the OSI Data Link Layer).3. Routers {and Brouters} (Operate at the OSI Network Layer).
The DD-WRT forums has a plethora of information making your own routers and bridges. Be warned that it can be difficult, but very rewarding once completed.
Buffalo provides great support for their routers. In addition, their routers are very flexible and easy to modify.
It is a fact that bridges forward packets faster when compared to routers. Because router takes time to find the shortest path between source and destination,whereas bridges directly forwards the packets.
Cisco Systems is mainly a business to business company. Their consumer division, Linksys, would make bridges and routers more appropiate for home use.
Not only do bridges and switches separate collision domains but routers also perform this task.
Bridges, Switches and Routers will all separate collision domains.
I personally get my computer networking products at Newegg.com. Their prices are usually competitive and they provide excellent support after the purchase.
These hub/ routers combine the functions of a hub and a router all in one. These routers are fairly expensive in price and may be able to purchase one on sale if you have an electronics/computer store in your area.