In today's slowing economy, the almighty dollar has become of utmost importance to the average consumer and growing small business. We constantly are watching what we spend and how we utilize our money to increase our pockets. On the other hand, services such as internet connectivity haven't gotten cheaper and they only show signs of increasing as our demand for speed increases. Shared internet access is in growing demand and we want the best for our money. Look no further, in this article we will be explaining how routers affect the home and office and how it can save you money.
What is a Router?
A router is a third party device that delivers packets (Information or data) to other computers over a network. A router assigns IP addresses to computers that are connected to it via an internal DHCP (A protocol that assigns addresses.) or network administrator and then distributes information to them. A router can serve as a medium for file sharing on the network or merely share ONE internet connection between multiple computers. These connections occur via Protocols, or sets of rules which the communication path must follow. A router follows protocols to deliver what type of information to which computer.
What is a Network?
A network is exactly as it sounds as if referring to a network of people or friends except with computers or electronic signal emitting devices. A router acts as the connection between those friends and only tells them things as they ask for it. A network helps utilize information sharing between the other computers on the network and enables for other computers to use other functions such as printer sharing and file transfers. All of this and more is possible with a router.
What would I need to network two computers together?
You would need a router, some CAT5 ethernet cables, and two computers. Understand that networking two computers together would not require the internet to do. However, if you are wanting to connect the computers together and use the internet, you would need a modem. Typically, we use a high speed modem such as a DSL modem or cable modem. You get these from your ISP or you can buy one from a major electronic retail outlet and you would have to have an internet service through an ISP.
In short, routers do save you money at a fraction of the cost. They tend to be long lasting and somewhat easy to use. Many ISP's offer free home network installation and send out combo modems and routers. This is where a modem manufacturer fuses together a modem and a router so there is no need for two separate pieces of equipment. In future articles, we will explain how to set up a router in your home or business and help you choose the right router for your money. For more information on routers you can consult www.linksys.com. This is one of many manufacturers of routers and other telephony products.
