What technology do routers and switches belong to?

Routers and switches belong to the category of Information Technology (IT) because they are fundamental components in networking that facilitate data transfer between devices within a network. IT encompasses all aspects of computing technology, where routers and switches serve as the backbone for communication, enabling devices to connect to each other, share information, and access the internet.

Routers direct data packets between different networks, while switches operate within a single network, directing data to the correct devices based on their MAC addresses. Both are crucial for the functioning of modern computer networks, which are integral to IT infrastructure.

In contrast, other categories like Operational Technology (OT) focus more on industrial and manufacturing processes, and while there is overlap with telecom in certain areas, telecom technologies generally refer to broader communications networks that may include aspects beyond just data networking equipment. Hence, within the context of networking and data communication, IT is the most accurate classification for routers and switches.