route

route add -net 131.111.0.0 netmask 255.255.0.0

This sets up a local route - every machine with an IP address beginning with 131.111 is deemed to be local, and is communicated with directly, not via a gateway. See understanding subnets and netmasks for a detailed explanation of how the computer determines whether the destination IP address matches a route.

route add default gw 131.111.20.62

This sets up a default route. Any machine with an IP address which does not begin with 131.111 is not local, and packets for it will be sent via the gateway at 131.111.20.62. The gateway itself is local and is accessed using the first route.

Route [OE. & F. route, OF. rote, fr. L. rupta (sc. via), fr. ruptus, p.p. of rumpere to break; hence, literally, a broken or beaten way or path. See Rout, and cf. Rut a track.]

The course or way which is traveled or passed, or is to be passed; a passing; a course; a road or path; a march.

Wide through the furzy field their route they take. Gay.

© Webster 1913.