Can a router operate as a "pure" switch?

[Blueychan]

Recently, I configure a spare Lynksys router to work like a switch by doing the followings:

1. Give the wireless router (access point/switch) an ip address on the same network as DHCP server (router).
2. Disable DHCP, DNS, and firewall.
3. Plug in to one of the 4 LAN ports (not WAN or Internet port).

With this configuration, the Linksys router works similar to a switch. So Are routers = switches with extra features?

Since routers and switches operate at different layers, is it correct to assume, even with the configuration above, that routers are still dealing with packets and IP routing while switches deal with MAC address/Frames?

 

[JackMDS]

Wireless Routers are a combo unit of Routing circuits, Switch, and Access Point in one plastic box.

For functional purposes when configured correctly the switch part works a s regular none-managed Switch.

 

[Blueychan]

Cool, thanks for the answer Jack.

 

[Sheep221]

yes the router can act as a switch or as wifi AP only