The Importance of Routers

A router acts as an access point for all your internet enabled products. Its also the essential product which will create a wireless or wired home network.

What router do I need?

The type of router you buy depends on the type of Internet you receive. There are two ways Internet can be received:

• ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) which is received via a telephone line

ADSL Broadband is achieved by upgrading a standard BT telephone line to deliver fast Internet services to the home. ADSL Modem Routers work by plugging directly into your BT line, there is no need for a separate modem. Once connected to the line, the ADSL Modem Router is able to share the Broadband Internet connection with all the internet enabled devices in your home.

• Cable (Ethernet) which is proved Through a Cable Company (i.e. NTL or Telewest)

Cable broadband users connect to the service via a cable modem that has two connections, one to the cable wall outlet and the other to a internet device (laptop, PC). Cable Routers work by plugging into the provided cable modem's built-in networking port (also known as Ethernet port or RJ-45 connection). Once connected to the modem, which in turn is connected to the cable wall socket, the Cable Router is able to share the broadband Internet connection with all the computers in your home.

If you have more than one PC, you may wish to share your connection to multiple PC's either wirelessly or with wires. To do this you will need a wired or wireless broadband router that plugs directly into the cable modem using an RJ-45 connection (check that your cable modem has one).