What does a router do?

Discussion in 'General Chat' started by NRLMedia, Aug 2, 2006.

0
  1. #1
    Couldn't find a section for this so I figured I'd post it here:

    I have been looking into getting a wireless/network router and have some questions:

    Is there any advantages of having a router, rather than a direct connection to the modem?

    Do routers designate new IP addresses?

    How secure are wireless routers?

    Any help is appreciated :)
     
    NRLMedia, Aug 2, 2006 IP
  2. WhatUdo!

    WhatUdo! Guest

    Messages:
    211
    Likes Received:
    10
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #2
    If you have more than one computer you can use it to get internet access to the other computer.
     
    WhatUdo!, Aug 2, 2006 IP
  3. 1EightT

    1EightT Guest

    Messages:
    2,646
    Likes Received:
    71
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #3
    they route packets across a network.
     
    1EightT, Aug 2, 2006 IP
  4. NRLMedia

    NRLMedia Peon

    Messages:
    2,462
    Likes Received:
    215
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #4
    FYI:

    I know what the basics of what a router does, I just want to know why it's better than just using a modem or if it is?

    I have 2 computers.
     
    NRLMedia, Aug 2, 2006 IP
  5. WhatUdo!

    WhatUdo! Guest

    Messages:
    211
    Likes Received:
    10
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #5
    Less cables to worry about.
     
    WhatUdo!, Aug 2, 2006 IP
  6. darksat

    darksat Guest

    Messages:
    1,239
    Likes Received:
    16
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #6
    Wireless routers generally have built in firewalls, they allow you to connect multiple computers and they normally improve the security of your network.
     
    darksat, Aug 3, 2006 IP
  7. MatthewN

    MatthewN Well-Known Member

    Messages:
    859
    Likes Received:
    30
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    195
    #7
    If you have more then 1 computer (which you do) then a router is the way to go. If you go wireless then I recommend using some kind of authentication like WEP and also the built in MAC address filters so that only designated MAC addresses can connect. Also change the SSID to something else and you can also switch off broadcasting that SSID.
     
    MatthewN, Aug 3, 2006 IP
  8. misohoni

    misohoni Notable Member

    Messages:
    1,717
    Likes Received:
    32
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    200
    #8
    My wireless signal is pretty rubbish since it reaches about 20 metres or so...should I:

    - Buy a better Wireless setup (currently Orinico)
    - Buy another Wireless setup - can I have x2 wireless boxes to improve the signal...

    Any other help would be great...
     
    misohoni, Aug 17, 2006 IP
  9. cormac

    cormac Peon

    Messages:
    3,662
    Likes Received:
    222
    Best Answers:
    0
    Trophy Points:
    0
    #9
    They are better as there is no cables so its more neat setup. If you have a laptop you would be able to sit on the toilet and check emails, always a plus.


    misohoni - your range shouldnt be an issue as wireless can be from 150-300 feet indoors. I would look into what legnth your Orinico supports - contact them and ask, let them know you have a weak signal.
     
    cormac, Aug 17, 2006 IP