What happens when a router forwards data from a frame relay network to an Ethernet network?

When data is forwarded from a frame relay network to an Ethernet network, the correct process involves encapsulating the packet in an Ethernet frame for transmission. This encapsulation is crucial because different networking technologies use distinct framing formats. The frame relay protocol encapsulates data in a specific way suitable for its network, while Ethernet has its own frame structure.

In this scenario, the router acts as an intermediary between the two networks. When it receives a data packet from the frame relay network, it must prepare that packet for transmission over the Ethernet network, which requires wrapping or encapsulating the original packet into an Ethernet frame. This process ensures that the data can be understood and appropriately processed by devices on the Ethernet network.

This means that the frame relay packet is modified to adhere to Ethernet standards, including the addition of Ethernet headers and trailers, allowing it to traverse the Ethernet medium correctly and reach its intended destination. Therefore, encapsulation is an essential step when transitioning between different networking technologies.