Define a network processor ?

a network processor is defined as a processor which processes a network....

A network processor is an integrated circuit which has a feature set specifically targeted at the networking application domain. Network processors are typically software programmable devices and would have generic characteristics similar to general purpose central processing units that are commonly used in many different types of equipment and products. In modern telecommunications networks, information (voice, video, data) is now transferred as packet data (termed packet switching) rather than previously in older telecommunications networks as analog signals such as in the (public switched telephone network) (PSTN) or analog TV/Radio networks, The processing of these packets has resulted in the creation of Integrated Circuits that are optimised to deal with this form of packet data. Network Processors have specific features or architectures that are provided to enhance and optimise packet processing within these networks. The network processor has evolved as ICs with specific functions have resulted in more complex and more flexible IC being created that are programmable and thus allow a single hardware IC design to undertake a number of different functions (by the addition of software). Network processors are used in the manufacture of many different types of network equipment such as: Routers and switches Firewalls Intrusion detection devices Intrusion prevention devices Network monitoring systems. Hope this help you out!