At an earlier time, many of us lived in a house with a single PC, where we only need a modem to connect to the internet. Technically, if you only want to connect one device, you can still use the modem only. However, for security reasons, it is best to use a Wi-Fi router even for only one device on your network.
But now that homes usually have more than one device, a router is important. You need a router to connect multiple devices to the Internet. If you are wondering to know how does a Wi-Fi Router Works? You are at the right place.
This article will inform you about how does a Wi-Fi Router work, the types of Wi-Fi routers, things to consider before buying a Wi-Fi router, and more.
Table of Contents
How does a Wi-Fi router work?
A Wi-Fi router connects a number of devices to a network without using wires from the computer to the router. It allows users to connect to the internet quickly and easily, usually within 100 meters of the wireless signal. It does not only connect a number of devices to the internet but also helps you to connect multiple devices with each other.
Without the internet, you can still build a local network for computers and other devices. This allows you to transfer and share files across specific devices within the network, including printers, scanners, and game consoles.
Please Note: Most of the modern modems are wireless and have a built-in router
What are the types of Wi-Fi routers?
There are three main types of Wi-Fi routers; single, dual, and tri-band. The details of each are given below:
1. Single-band Wi-Fi router
Single-band Wi-Fi router uses only one band; 2.4 GHz. More traffic in single-lane often results in slow speed. Its internet service is easily interrupted by the latest gadgets such as Bluetooth, camera, cell phone, television, etc. It is good for the house with a single device. You can buy it for under $50.
2. Dual-band Wi-Fi router
Dual-band Wi-Fi router uses two bands; 2.4 GHz band and 5 GHz band which make them most useful for houses with 2-5 devices. It offers a faster and more stable internet connection all over your home.
Moreover, it is not interrupted by any electronic device because of its separate network. It is considered dedicated networking for watching videos and playing games. Its price range is $100-$200.
3. Tri-band Wi-Fi router
It uses three bands; one 2.4 GHz band and two 5 GHz bands. Moreover, it is best for homes with more than 10 devices. It offers the highest speed, lowest interference, more bandwidth, and wider coverage. Although, it is expenses with the price range of $300-$400. However, users say that the services are worth the price.
Why do you need a Wi-Fi Router?
The routers are very important when it comes to automating your home. Since an automated or smart home is also a local network of devices, without a router they cannot communicate with each other. Depending on the device, you may need an Internet connection if services are hosted by the cloud. But in the end, the router connects these data packages.
Moreover, a Wi-Fi router is used to create a local network. A router is a central route for your home network. It connects directly to your network cable, or via modem. All internal and outgoing traffic is transferred to the router. The physical position of the router and the direction of its antenna plays an important role in getting the best coverage.
Things to Consider Before Buying Wi-Fi Router
You may have used a Wi-Fi network in a shopping mall or somewhere else but never set it up yourself. If you are going to buy it for home, you should not only know How does a Wi-Fi Router work but also you should keep the following points in your mind.
1. What type of Wi-Fi Router do you need?
Depending on your Internet service provider (ISP), you may need to purchase a router, a different router, and modem, or a modem. Almost all ISPs use DSL or fiber for their service, which requires modem switching. Most modern routers have built-in modems, so you only need one device.
However, it is worth checking with your ISP as some require the use of a related modem.
Before jumping in, you should be aware of which router features are most important to you. Your needs will vary if you intend to use your Wi-Fi network for online games or activities.
2. How to Protect and Configure a Wi-Fi Network?
Once you have registered with the ISP and purchased your router, you will need to set up your home network. While this will vary with the device, there are general considerations for new routers.
Most routers have a well-known username and password. You must change your Wi-Fi control password because unchanged login details are easy to hack.
When connecting devices to Wi-Fi, you will need to enter a password to access the network. This password is different from your router and you can always find it on the label on the router itself. The Wi-Fi password ensures that people don’t connect without permission.
You may find that after setting up your network, it seems to slow down more than you expected. Check out our slow Wi-Fi repair guide if that’s the case. If children are using your Wi-Fi network, it may be best to set parental controls on your router.
3. What should be checked in router?
The following points should be considered for checking any router.
Wi-Fi Performance
Make sure that the router has updated firmware and the latest technology such as MU-MIMO (Multi-user, multiple-input, multiple-output). This latest technology assists Wi-Fi routers to connect with multiple devices simultaneously with less waiting time and better network speed.
Wi-Fi security
Choose a router having built-in security features, like automatic firmware updates and device quarantine. It will protect your network from cybercriminals.
Wi-Fi coverage
It depends upon the size of your home and barriers such as thick walls, mirrors, fireplaces, and other objects that block internet signals. Select the router that can provide network coverage to every corner of your home.
Wi-Fi controls
The latest routers are user-friendly and easy to install. The option of a mobile app helps you to control user time, manage the guest network, and have parental control.
4. How often should you replace Wi-Fi Router?
With each passing year, more devices join your home Wi-Fi network, putting more pressure on Wi-Fi routers that may need to upgrade. So, we recommend replacing your router every two years to stay advanced with wireless technology.
Note: The efficiency of the Wi-Fi router depends on the number of bands it has.
Also, check out our review on the best wi-fi routers.
Wrapping Up
The article above informs you about how does a Wi-Fi router work, how it can be used to automate your home, the type of Wi-Fi router, and things to consider before buying. If you still face any trouble, please drop your comment below.
