How does the internet travel from your cable line to your computer? If you are like many households and offices you have what is known as a wireless network. This network connects your computer to a device known as a wireless modem router which then connects to your modem and the great big web beyond. This type is setup is popular and convenient, making it possible to share information and internet access without running wires.
Of all of these components, the wireless router is the piece that many people end up purchasing on their own. Most cable companies will provide the HSPA Modem with your service contract, but leave you on your own when it comes to setting up a network to share the web. If you are trying to set up your own network, here are a few things about routers to keep in mind...
Is It Compatible?
Today's routers are becoming more and more user friendly. As standards progress, they are also becoming more universal. This is a good thing for shoppers. It is no longer necessary to painstakingly ensure that your equipment will work with your existing pieces because most all of today's devices are forwards and backwards compatible with each other. Likewise, most routers will work with cable, satellite or DSL internet connections and have a port in the back for each type.
The Need For Speed
Today there are two common types of routers based upon different wireless protocols with one capable of providing faster data transfer than the other. The older of the two is the 802.11G series wireless terminal. After "G" comes "802.11N" series devices which are faster. Generally speaking, both types of devices (the routers and the networking cards) are compatible with one another. For best results, you would want to ensure that all of your computers as well as the router are using the N protocol.
Install Without Headaches
Installing one of today's routers is actually very simple. Sometimes it is as easy as plugging it in and running through a few basic setup steps. The specifics vary greatly depending on the type of unit you get, so be sure to read the directions and follow them to get setup without hassle. There is no need to hire help for this if you are comfortable with light computer setup unless you have a complicated setup across many operating systems or older computers and servers.
