What is a router?
Whether it’s the working week, paying bills, streaming TV or even turning up the thermostat, we’re all hooked on the internet. But how many of us know exactly how it works? But with more of us doing hybrid working, there’s never been a better time to give your network knowledge an upgrade.
If you need a router definition or are curious what a router is used for, you’ve come to the right place. But this isn’t just to impress your mates, knowing how a router works can help you do everything from buying a new router to sorting making your home internet faster and smoother – and who doesn’t want that?
Router definition
A router is a device that forwards and directs data packets between computer networks. They connect multiple local networks (LANs) and forward data packets between them. They can be either wired or wireless and provide access to the Internet.
How do routers work?
Imagine your internet connection as a busy motorway, and your data packets as cars trying to reach their destinations. In this scenario, routers act a bit like the traffic signals and road signs – directing each data packet on its way, ensuring a smooth flow of information. They use a technology called packet switching, which breaks down data into smaller parts and sends them through the internet to where they need to be. But how does it do all that?
What’s inside a router?
A typical router has lots of components, each with a specific role. The central processing unit (CPU) does the thinking, while the memory stores temporary data. Ethernet ports connect your devices, and the firmware decides what your router should do. Antennas (for wireless routers) broadcast WiFi signals, turning your humble router into an online powerhouse.
Types of routers for home use
If you’re in the market for a router for your home network, you might be surprised by the number of different types available, including some pretty advanced modern routers. So before you start shopping, here are the most common types of routers around and what the difference between them is:
1. Single Band routers
These routers use the 2.4GHz frequency band, which is the older and more crowded frequency. Single-band routers are usually less expensive than other types of routers, but they may not be suitable for larger homes or networks with many devices.
2. Dual Band routers
Dual-band routers use two frequency bands, the 2.4GHz band and the 5GHz band. This allows you to have more devices on your network without slowing down, as the 5GHz band is less crowded. These routers are more expensive than single-band routers, but may be worth the extra money if you have a larger home or many devices.
3. Tri-Band routers
Tri-band routers are similar to dual-band routers, but they have an additional 5GHz band. This can be great for multi-device streaming or gaming, as each band can handle different types of traffic. They are the most expensive type of router, but are great for large homes with loads of devices.
4. Mesh routers
Is there a part of your house where you never seem to get internet? You might need a mesh router, which are a newer type of router that are becoming increasingly popular. They work by using multiple nodes to create a network that covers a larger area than a single router. Mesh routers are great for large homes or multi-story buildings, as they can help eliminate dead spots in your network.
5. Wi-Fi 6 Routers
Wi-Fi 6 routers are the latest type of router, touting faster speeds, better connectivity and improved security. They are backwards compatible with devices that use previous Wi-Fi standards, but you will need to have Wi-Fi 6 compatible devices to get that speed. They are more expensive than other types of routers, but may be worth the investment if you have newer devices or want to future-proof your home network.
6. Virtual routers
If you’re shopping for a physical router, you won’t need to worry about virtual routers – but if you want your network to do more, it’s good to know about them. Virtual routers allows multiple virtual machines to share a single physical router, providing a way to efficiently manage network traffic and make networks perform better too. Virtual routers can be created using specialised software or can be implemented using virtual appliances, and are a big part of cloud computing.
7. Gaming routers
Gaming routers are especially designed around the best gaming experiences. Some gaming routers may include features like Quality of Service (QoS) to reduce lag and latency, Port Forwarding for better connectivity, and Dual-Band or Tri-Band Wi-Fi for faster and more reliable connections. They are ideal for serious gamers who need the fastest and most reliable network speeds to gain an advantage over the competition.
Routers jargon busting guide
If you’re new to networking or just need a refresher, terms that crop up around routers and routing protocols can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of some common jargon to help you better understand the technology.
IP address
An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a numerical label assigned to each device connected to a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It’s both an interface identification and reveals the location of the device.
ISP
Internet Service Provider, is a company that provides customers with internet access. ISPs typically offer a variety of internet connection types, such as cable, DSL, and fibre-optic, as well as different plans with varying speeds and data limits. ISPs also often offer additional services such as email accounts and web hosting.
Routing Protocol
Routing protocols are a set of rules that routers use to determine the best path for data to travel between networks. The most common types of routing protocols are:
OSPF (Open Shortest Path First)
OSPF is a link-state routing protocol that uses the Shortest Path First (SPF) algorithm to determine the fastest route between networks. OSPF is commonly used in large businesses.
BGP (Border Gateway Protocol)
BGP is an exterior gateway protocol (EGP) used to exchange routing information between different autonomous systems (AS). BGP is often used by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to communicate with one another.
RIP (Routing Information Protocol)
RIP is a distance-vector protocol that determines the best path for data to travel based on the number of hops (routers) it takes to reach its destination. RIP is commonly used in small to medium-sized networks.
NAT (Network Address Translation)
NAT is a technique used by routers to map a public IP address to a private IP address. NAT allows multiple devices on a private network to share a single public IP address. Whenever a device on the private network needs to connect to the internet, the router uses NAT to translate the private IP address to the public IP address.
Firewall
A firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on a set of rules. Firewalls are used to prevent unauthorised access to a network and protect against network threats such as malware and viruses.
FAQs
What is the difference between a router and a modem?
A router and modem are two different devices that are commonly used to connect to the internet. The main difference between a router and a modem is that a modem connects you to the internet, while a router connects local devices to your network.
Is a wireless router the same as WiFi?
No, a wireless router is not the same as WiFi. A wireless router is a device that serves as both a router and a wireless access point, allowing devices to connect to a network wirelessly. WiFi, on the other hand, refers to the technology that allows devices to connect to a network wirelessly.
Do you need a router to have WiFi?
Yes, you need a router to have WiFi. A router is required to create a local network that allows devices to communicate with each other and connect to the internet wirelessly.
Do you need both a modem and a router?
Yes, you need both a modem and a router to connect to the internet and create a local network. The modem connects you to your ISP (Internet Service Provider), while the router creates a local network that allows devices to connect to each other and the internet.
Source: CURRYS