Which of the following is a difference between a virtual router and a physical router?

A virtual router is software-based, while a physical router is hardware-based. This distinction is fundamental when considering the architecture and deployment of networking devices. A virtual router is typically a software application that emulates the functionalities of a traditional router, allowing it to run on various hardware platforms. This flexibility means it can be quickly deployed, scaled, and enhanced without being tied to specific physical hardware.

On the other hand, a physical router consists of dedicated hardware that performs routing functions. This hardware usually incorporates specialized components designed for processing and forwarding network traffic, optimizing performance and reliability for the environments in which they operate.

The other statements do not accurately reflect the core differences. For instance, the idea that a virtual router is always faster than a physical router is misleading since performance depends on the underlying hardware and specific configurations. Additionally, a virtual router can often support multiple networks, not just one, making it versatile for various applications. Lastly, while physical routers can indeed receive software updates for enhancements and security improvements, this characteristic does not directly contrast them with virtual routers in the context of defining their fundamental nature.