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How Does a WiFi Router Work? – Overview
If you are reading this article, then chances are that you are using a router somewhere along the way.
If you accessed this website on your laptop, PC or smartphone, then you are probably using a WiFi router to stay connected to the internet.
To know more about what is a WiFi router, how a WiFi router works, the difference between routers and modems and tips to buy the best WiFi router, then you should read on.
What is a WiFi router?
A router connects your internet-enabled devices to the web. As the name suggests, the router is designed to “route” the communication between your devices and the internet.
A good-quality router is essential to enjoy fast and uninterrupted internet connectivity. It also assures maximum cyber-security to your online communications and avoids those frustrating WiFi dead spots.
Routers come in various makes and models. Experts recommend buying WiFi routers according to your specific requirements. For instance, a WiFi router for an office will have different specifications than that routers for personal use at home.
For seamless and swift internet connectivity it is highly recommended to buy WiFi routers from renowned brands online. This way, you can ensure high-speed internet connectivity throughout the premises.
How Does a WiFi router work?
A normal home today would have several internet-enabled devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktop PCs, printers, smart TVs and even smart appliances.
A router helps to connect these devices to a private network. It regulates the flow of incoming and outgoing data from the network in the fastest and most effective way possible.
There are multiple devices connected to the internet via the router and each is in almost constant use.
The devices connected to a network by your router tend to use different bandwidths. A router helps to allocate the appropriate bandwidth according to the requirement. Thus, it ensures smooth and streamlined connectivity to multiple devices.
Hence, a router is extremely useful when you watch movies online, live-stream the feed from the baby cam and use WiFi to connect your smartphones to the internet simultaneously.
In simple words, routers connect your devices to the internet in a fast, uninterrupted manner.
As newer, more innovative gadgets are launched every day, there is an increase in demand for smooth, swift internet connectivity at home and work. A high-quality router from a renowned brand is crucial to ensure this.
Are there different types of WiFi routers?
Yes, there are mainly two types of WiFi routers:
Wireless routers – A wireless router connects to the modem directly with a cable. This way, the router receives and directs incoming and outgoing internet traffic on the local network. This type of router has built-in antennas to communicate with internet-enabled devices connected to your home network using WiFi technology.
Wired routers – A wired router uses wires to connect directly to your computers. They have a port to connect the wire from the modem. This allows internet connectivity to your router. Another port, or series of ports, allows the wired router to connect the computer and other internet-enabled devices to the internet. It also allows the different devices on the local home network to communicate and share files.
Are there different types of WiFi routers
Are routers different from modems?
A modem is an important part of your home network. Along with the router and internet-enabled devices, the modem is essential equipment for internet connectivity. It is the modem that connects your devices (through the router) to the internet.
The modem works as the gateway of connectivity between you and your internet service provider.
Modems regulate the flow of incoming and outgoing data between the internet-enabled devices and your service provider.
In simple words, the router connects your computers, smartphones and smart devices to the internet through the modem.
How to choose the best WiFi router?
The main factor in choosing the right WiFi router is compatibility with your internet service provider.
So, it is highly recommended to contact your ISP and ask about the type of router you should buy.
As most ISPs use either fiber or DSL to provide internet connectivity, it only requires conversion by a modem. So, you might be able to buy a modem with a built-in router.
However, many ISPs have started providing their modems with built-in routers, so you should check with your internet service provider.
Overall, routers are available in varying models and make. So, you need to consider your specific requirements before choosing the router/modem for your home network.
Conclusion
Routers are crucial to connect your devices to the internet and form a local network to share files among different devices on the network.
To decide the best-suited router for your needs, we strongly advise you to contact your internet service provider and learn the technical specifications first.
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