What is designed to operate in the internet backbone?

The core router is specifically designed to operate in the internet backbone. Core routers are responsible for managing data traffic at high speeds across large distances, enabling efficient and rapid data transfer between different networks. They are optimized to handle large volumes of traffic and are a critical component in the backbone infrastructure of the internet, connecting various external networks and facilitating the flow of information.

In contrast, edge routers typically manage traffic coming in from external networks before it reaches a core router. Access points are used to connect wireless devices to a wired network but do not handle the core functions of routing in the backbone. Gateways serve as a bridge between different networks or protocols but do not perform the same high-speed data routing operations as core routers. Thus, the unique role of core routers makes them essential to the functioning of the internet backbone.