No, they don’t need to go through the router directly. They can communicate using the network’s built-in features.
No, they don’t need to go through the router directly. They can communicate using the network’s built-in features.
Two devices on the same network can still use the router for communication even if they’re connected to the same switch. They won’t necessarily have to pass through the router each time. The diagram you shared might need a bit more clarity, but generally yes, they’ll route traffic through the router. I understand you were up late thinking about this.
They won't change unless they're on different networks, which I don't believe you're using.
Typically, only a few devices pass through the router directly, since many routers include a built-in switch that manages the LAN connections internally using the router's electrical link to one port.