Internet is the most apparent facet of globalization. Globalization tends to be most visible due to exposure to the internet. However, there should be some medium for you to get connected to the internet for your linkage with the whole world.
Router!! This small name is a powerful device for the people of urban to semi-urban areas. In recent years, routers have gained tremendous popularity for their functions. A router is a device that supports connecting the internet to your device. With the help of a router, you can connect globally. Router implicit “routes”- The traffic within the internet and the device.
Depending on the type of router you can get the facility of fast internet services and avoid cyberthreats. A router is responsible for many functions of the internet of your home. Let’s see how it works
How does a router work?
In urban areas, almost every residential building has some devices that need to be connected to the internet. Some of them are smartphones, PCs, printers, smart tv, smart speakers, and others. Some households may have more internet-connected gadgets; some may have less. With the help of a router, these smart devices create a network. The router regulates the inbound and outbound traffic on the network in an efficient and importantly fastest way.
The data or information that are reaching the network of your home can be a film or an email, each piece of information takes up a different amount of bandwidth. The router makes sure the information that is traveling to your network is safe, correct, and fast. The smarter devices you add to your home the more responsibility of your router.
Functions of Router
In a home network, the router comes with a cable modem. The cable is activated by the company and it is plugged at the back of the modem-router inside the coaxial port. The router provides a home network through various network ports which are constructed at the back of the router. Once you plug in the smart devices in your router, the devices can access the internet.
This was the case with a cable router. If you purchase a wireless router, the router itself creates a wireless network for your home network and no physical network wire is needed to be plugged into your router.
Some of the works of routers are discussed below.
- Firewall for security
A vital feature of a router is that firewall is embedded in it. The firewall filters the incoming and outgoing information and data. In short, a firewall is a strainer between the private and public internet that filters the information. The firewalls have upgraded over time, thus they are more effective and filters out the trackers that roam around the internet with hacking intentions. In some routers, you will find the inbuilt firewall setting while in the others you can also configure the firewall settings. You can also secure by enabling the options of denial of services.
- Monitor your network
Router monitors your network. By this, it means the router monitors your internet as well as your internal network connection. It also permits you to change the security password of your wireless connection. If required you can also reset the factory configuration and set your router on the default setting. Your router will also show you the devices connected to it.
You can also use your router to monitor your network.
- Blocking services and applications
Routers also allow you to customize the services and apps that can connect via your home network. You can see the feature in the security section under the Block service menu. Here in the block service menu, you have an option to block some particular protocols like IRC, FTP, and even some specific games if you children are game freaks and plays online game round the day. By blocking these applications, you are preventing them from accessing your internet.
- Parental control over the internet
Along with application blocking, you can also block some particular websites by writing the domain names or even filter pages (by listing the keywords) if you feel the websites and pages are not appropriate for your children. After filtering the pages if anyone in your house visits the pages that contain even a single keyword that is banned, the whole page will be blocked.
Types of routers
There are two types of routers to be considered:
1. Wireless routers
The wireless router is a modern upgraded router that should be connected to the modem with the help of a cable. It permits the router to receive and convey information to the internet. After that, the router links with your Wi-Fi network by using its in-built antennas. Thus, you can access the internet through your smart devices.
2. Wired Routers
Wired routers are simpler. It is connected directly via wired connections. Usually, wired routers have a port that is connected with the modem so that you can get connected with the network.
How to select the right router?
The Internet service provider usually provides you with a modem and a router or sometimes both. They charge a certain amount of subscription fee which increases gradually. These routers might not suit your requirement, but, still, you have to count the monthly fees. To get rid of the situation you can purchase a better router that might cater to your needs. Here are some factors you should check while purchasing a router.
- Security
In today’s date security is the primary requirement of any individual in terms of a network. Cybercriminals or attackers can enter your home network to install the malware on your smart devices. They have a collection of the tool with the help of which they can access your personal information.
A protective router with network protection is needed to protect your device against cyber-attacks. The router having built-in security features like device quarantine and automatic updates can protect your device from viruses installed by cybercriminals.
- Coverage of Wifi
The Wifi signals cover the area of your home depending largely on the dimensions of your home and also on the obstacles that prevent the signal from reaching its destinations. Some of the common hindrances of your WIFI signal are fireplaces, thick walls, and mirrors. Strong wooden doors also prevent the signal to connect to your device.
Choose a router with a capacity to cover the entire home including the extreme corners. Go for a router that enlarges the capacity of Wi-Fi all over your house.
- Performance of Wi-Fi
Router technologies have improved over time. Ensure to buy a router with updated firmware and advanced technology. MU-MIMO is a new technology. The MU-MIMO permits the router to connect with numerous devices at the same time. This feature speeds up the network and consumes less time. Look for the best DOCSIS 3.1 modem router.
- Controllable
For residential purposes, get a router that can be controlled easily. The advanced routers are simple to install. Most of them come with helpful apps and can assist you with the features like guest network, user time limit paternal controls, and network administration. If these features are there in your router be sure about its worthiness.
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FAQs
Does the router affect the speed of the internet?
Yes, a router can affect the speed of your internet. That’s because it processes all the data from your home network. So having a good router will help you get the most of your internet speed.
The reset button of a router is usually located on the back of your device. But some routers may have it at the bottom.
Conclusion
In this pandemic situation, everyone is working from home, classes for the children all are done through the internet so routers have become a vital part of everyone’s life as the world is changing. The router compatible with FiOS is also worthy.
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