How the router works

Instructions on how to use the router are provided with each device. It prescribes the algorithm of connection and network settings. It is convenient that this Wi-Fi router is adjusted only once and in the future does not require outside intervention for normal functioning.

Design of a Wi-Fi router – basic concepts

Before buying equipment, users are faced with different names of units and start to get confused with them. On forums there are often questions about what a router is and how it differs from similar equipment. The confusion often arises because of the terminology, which can be understood after a careful study of the adapters.

What is a router – what is it for

The equipment performs the task of distributing data streams inside, allowing all connected gadgets to quickly and completely receive the necessary information.

The principle of its operation is based on a routing table in which all addresses and detailed information about the hardware connected to the public network are stored.

A standard router is a device that builds a local network based on the routing table.

The device is responsible for receiving external packets from the service provider and then transmitting the information to the end device using a cable or a virtual wi-fi line.

What's the difference between a router and a router, basic concepts

There is no apparent difference between the two, there are simply two main names for the hardware:

In addition to these terms, you can also meet others: Internet center, gateway, etc. Router and router in what is the main difference – in the habit of the seller to call the unit.

What is Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi, or wireless networking, is a technology that is actually much older than many people think. The world's first wireless data transmission was first done with a HAM radio in 1971, although the technology with which it worked is considered rather primitive today.

By 1997, the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) had agreed to the 802.11 standard, which at the time was used in relation to what we know today as 802.11b. Since then, there have been several more leaps in transmission speeds and volumes. Each leap has generated new technologies. Standard "b," for example, was the first to deliver data rates around 11 Mbps. By comparison, the most recent, the current 802.11ad standard, is capable of a whopping 7 Gbps.

The 802.11 networking standards will vary somewhat depending on the needs of the user.

The standard	Features
802.11a	Transmits data at the 5 GHz frequency level. You can transmit a maximum of 54 megabits of data per second
802.11b	Transmits data at the 2.4 GHz frequency level, which is a relatively low speed. You can transmit no more than 11 megabits of data per second
802.11g	Frequency is 2.4 GHz, but can transmit a maximum of 54 megabits of data per second because it also uses OFDM coding
802.11n	Can transmit a maximum of 140 megabits of data per second and uses the 5 GHz frequency level

Wireless routers. What is it?

Simply put, a wireless router is a piece of network equipment that receives a terrestrial Internet signal from your Internet service provider and is "broadcast" via waves that propagate through the air using a number of different antennas. This signal is then detected by Wi-Fi enabled devices – smartphones, laptops, etc. – which convert the code they receive into visible text, images and multimedia content.

The difference between a wireless router or router and a modem is that the former is only for broadcasting the signal you receive from your modem, which is actually responsible for decoding that signal. A modem is a piece of equipment that you get from your Internet service provider. Many ISPs now offer leases on modems that come with their own wireless routers inside.

Software and wireless protocols

Each router has software installed on it, often referred to as "firmware."

Each method has its pros and cons. However, you have to keep in mind that the software has to get new protocols, fix bugs, and should be updated regularly. The same providers are gradually changing to new protocols. However, when a manufacturer releases a new model and stops developing (modifying and improving) software for an older model, customers often have to buy a new router.

Alternative firmware often has more features, but using such software can result in voiding the warranty and changing the router's behavior (you should read the firmware description carefully).

If there are a lot of self-written programs for some router, it indicates a problem with the original software.

Popularity of the model may depend on the availability of alternative software and the speed of updating the original firmware. The basic version of the software is available in the "Support" section of the manufacturer's website. You need to search for "alternate firmware (model name)" to see if alternate software is available.

The advantage of the second method (each model has its own software) is that the software is constantly updated and works more efficiently.

Modern routers support all popular protocols and can work with any manufacturer's network. However, the provider may not work with all models, so it is recommended to consult with the service provider before purchasing the necessary equipment.

How the router works

Regardless of the type of connection, the device works on the same principle – the router receives and forwards traffic. But its advantage is that it can be connected to a computer, tablet, laptop or TV without using a cable. This option is most suitable for homes and offices. There is no need to run and hide cables inside.

You can see how a wireless wi-fi router works with an example. The Internet service provider transmits a binary signal. The router uses radio waves to receive it. The device then creates a separate IP address for each connected gadget, sending them a signal.

A modern household router allows users to access the Internet from any device to watch videos, listen to music, play online games, or search for necessary information.

Connection is possible only after proper configuration. You can do it yourself or with the help of a professional.

How it works

The router works on a multi-stage principle. It serves as an intermediate stage between the Internet and the user.

Each router functions according to a specific scheme, so it's easy to understand how a router with Wi-Fi for home works:

1. Once it's connected to power through a port and outlet, the device begins to start up.
2. It receives information, which is distributed into packets.
3. The packet header contains the address of the recipient.
4. A routing table is generated by a special code.
5. The router chooses from the table the path it uses to transmit data.
6. The user receives the Internet and can go online.

The user connects the device to the network and accesses the Internet, which is forwarded to the IP address. On your phone or computer, you need to find the router login and enter the password specified for the router.

What functions a router performs in your home

In modern times, routers are an integral part of human life. They help connect different types of devices to the Internet for digital, audio and text information.

Televisions, which support Wi-Fi connection, can not function without a router. With the help of a gateway, the device "catches" TV channels and displays the image on the screen. Users can view not only the content provided by television, but also any videos that are in the public domain.

The main advantage of routers is the ability to use the Internet for all family members from various devices. Any phones, tablets and computers that support Wi-Fi data transfer can be connected to it.

The ability to connect a router in an apartment or house provides access to the Internet of good quality.

Features of setup and operation

People who want to use such devices should understand in advance the peculiarities of their operation. To configure a pocket Wi-Fi router, you will have to perform the following actions:

1. Connect to the router through a PC or laptop.
2. Go to the web interface of the device. To do this in the address bar of the browser you must enter the IP 192.168.0.1.
3. Once in the menu with settings, you must change the connection mode to automatic.
4. Select one of the available modes. If it will distribute mobile Internet from a SIM card from Megafon or MTS, it is necessary to set the 3G/4G mode.

To use the router, you just need to connect to it via Wi-Fi with your username and password.

Portable AP mode

When this mode is turned on the router receives the internet signal and transmits it via Wi-Fi to the connected devices. To use the Wi-Fi adapter as a portable access point, you have to switch the toggle switch located on the case. Then you can connect to the router to access the Internet.

The key criteria for choosing a mobile router

Before you buy a pocket Wi-Fi router, you need to familiarize yourself with the main criteria for selection. There are several factors that should be considered when buying such a device:

• Supported mobile networks. It is recommended to choose models that can work with 3G and 4G. This will allow you to enjoy high-speed Internet.
• Wi-Fi standard. It is important that the router you buy supports the most common standards – 802.11 b, a, g, n and ac.
• Operating frequency. It is recommended to choose models supporting two bands – 2.4 and 5 GHz.
• Availability of Ethernet ports. It is necessary to buy a device with a LAN input. This will allow you to connect high speed wired Internet.

Important! When choosing a Wi-Fi modem, you should pay attention to its price. Especially if you have a limited budget.

Popular models

There are several popular varieties of mobile routers, which are used most often:

• HUAWEI E5576. This is a compact model that supports 3G and 4G networks. It works on a frequency of 2.4 GHz. The maximum data transfer speed is 300 Mbit/s.
• TP-LINK MR3020. The model is equipped with an Ethernet port for connecting a LAN wire. There is also a USB input, which is used to charge the device via the power supply. It supports 2.4 and 5 GHz frequencies.
• Alcatel Link Zone. The device is equipped with a powerful and high-quality battery that provides continuous operation for 15-20 hours. The model supports 15 simultaneous connections.
• Xiaomi ZMI MF885 Router. The main advantage of the router is a 10,000 mAh capacity battery. Thanks to this, the router can work autonomously for 40-50 hours.
• TP-LINK M7350. A budget model that is suitable for 4G and 3G networks. This device has a weak battery of 2500 mAh. Therefore, without recharging the router only works for 10 hours.

How is a router different from a router?

Often the terms "router" and "router" are used synonymously, and it is true, but routers are mostly understood as more technically sophisticated professional devices.

A router, is a combined device that performs several functions, such as connecting to the Internet, over a network cable (computers, TVs, etc. p.), or over Wi-Fi (smartphones, tablets, laptops), data transfer between devices, as well as security management and bandwidth control.

A router, on the other hand, is a device that is mainly used to transfer data between different networks. Routers are typically used in larger networks and have more advanced features such as bandwidth control, routing, and security policy management than routers.

In general, they provide data transfer between devices, but routers are typically used in less complex home or small office networks, while routers are typically used in larger networks, such as corporate networks. Thus, routers and routers differ in feature complexity, network size and level of management.

How do routers differ?

• Speed: Routers can support different Wi-Fi or wired network speeds, such as 802.11ac and 802.11n . Advanced features: Some routers may have additional features such as a built-in VPN server, pop-up blocker, or parental protection control.
• Design: Routers can come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and some may have an external or built-in display.
• Protocol support: Routers can support different protocols, such as IPv6 or VPN.
• Price: The cost of routers can vary by several dozen times depending on features and specifications.
• Brand and quality: Routers can be made by different manufacturers with different quality levels and reputations. Some well-known router brands, such as Zyxel , D-Link and TP-Link , provide high quality and reliability, while others may not be as well-known or offer less quality.
• Compatibility with other devices: Routers may have different Wi-Fi or wired standards, and some may only be compatible with certain devices. It is important to make sure that the router supports the standards used by your devices before purchasing it.

In conclusion, a router is an essential element of any local network because it allows you to connect devices and provide them with access to the Internet. In addition, it provides the ability to manage and configure various functions such as routing, security settings, and media server to ensure the security and efficiency of your network.

Depending on your needs, you can choose a router with basic or optional features. Regardless of your choice, it's important to know how the device works and how to configure it to get the most out of it.

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