• Home
• Links
• Broadband
• Router
• Wireless Router
• Wireless Network
• DSL Router
• ADSL Router
• PCI Wireless Adaptor
• PCMCIA Wireless Adaptor
• USB Wireless adaptor

Broadband Routers

Broadband Router - What is a Broadband Router ? A broadband router is able to control your local area network (LAN) so your main computer doesn’t even need to be on. It gives you the freedom to share your broadband connection with other computers. Typically Broadband Routers can be one of two types ADSL and DSL. These can be wireless or wired versions. .

ADSL Type Router. ADSL Routers have built in Modems so they can only be used via BT's copper phone lines which have been enabled with ADSL broadband. The major Internet Service Providers are compatible with this type including AOL, BT Broadband, Orange Talk Talk etc..and thes eoperate over your BT telephone line..

DSL Type Router DSL Routers operate via an external cable modem. Currently this type would be used with Virgin Media - ex Cable and Wireless, NTL, Telewest etc..

Wireless Type Router Wireless Broadband Routers are available in ADSL and DSL versions. It is important that you use the correct type with your broadband supplier otherwise they will not work. A wireless router will allow you to access the internet via another PC or laptop as long as you have a wireless card installed. Most new laptops have wireless built in from the factory.

What if your laptop does not have wireless built in ? Wireless receivers typically come in two types for a laptop: PCMCIA versions and USB versions. We find that the PCMCIA versions tend to protrude less than the USB versions.

What if your PC does not have a wireless card ? With a PC you can add a wireless feature by adding a wireless PCI card or if you are not comfortable opening up your computer you can as with a laptop add a USB wireless adaptor.

Broadband Security It is always recommended that you utilise the security feature in your wirless router to stop unwelcome access to your network. This is normally configured when you first set up your router but can easily be done afterwards.

What else can a Broadband Router do ? With a small home network connecting through a router you can add many shared peripherals including printers and shared storage drives.