A wireless router links computers to each other or to a network. A router also allows multiple computers to share a single Internet connection. Wireless routers are the backbone of wireless Internet networks and are used in businesses, at airports, in restaurants and in home offices. Wireless routers can be purchased at any electronics retailer and cost between $30 and $150.
Internet Connection
To set up a wireless router, you must have a high speed Internet connection. Dial-up Internet connections are not suitable for establishing a wireless network. The most common types of high speed connections are digital subscriber lines (DSL) or cable Internet services.
DSL
A wireless router will work with DSL services offered by any provider but it is not necessary to have a DSL connection to set up a wireless router. DSL services are offered by a variety of companies, which provide a modem that connects to the wireless router and home network. An Internet service provider will typically charge a monthly fee for DSL.
Cable
A wireless router will also work on an Internet connection provided by a cable company. Cable Internet connections also require a modem that is provided by the company, which is typically the same one that offers television in your area. The cable modem is connected to the wireless router to set up the network and the company will charge a monthly fee for Internet service.
Routers
There are a large number of wireless routers available in stores are each router type will work with either DSL or cable Internet. Microsoft recommends purchasing a model with Wireless-G or Wireless-N capabilities because they offer "excellent performance and are compatible with almost everything." The most popular brands of wireless routers are Linksys, D-Link and Cisco.
References
- Microsoft: How to Set Up Your Home Wireless Network
- Tech-FAQ: How a Wireless Router Works