Addition of a router between a DSL modem and your computer can provide protection.
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A digital subscriber lines (DSL) provides you with a dedicated high-speed Internet connection which is not shared with others, as is the case with many cable Internet providers. Some DSL providers may provide a minimal level of security for computers you connect to the line, while others may leave security for your systems completely up to you. It is wise to connect a router between your DSL modem and your computers to limit the numbers of ports outsiders can access on your internal systems. Connection of the router can be performed by any home network user having minimal expertise.
Step 1
Set up your computer desk so it is as close as possible to the location in which the DSL line enters your building. Set the router and the DSL modem as close as possible to your primary computer operating position, within six feet of the PC computer or laptop.
Step 2
Locate the input jack on the back of the router labeled "WAN" (wide area network), "Cable", or "DSL." This jack, as well as the numbered output jacks on the router, resembles a large telephone jack and is known as an "RJ45.". It is normally separated from the numbered output jacks to which your computers will be connected.
Step 3
Plug the end of the DSL line into the input jack on the modem labeled "WAN" or "DSL." Insert the RJ45 plug on the end of a CAT5 networking cable into the jack on the DSL modem labeled "Computer", "LAN" (local area network) or simply "Network." Connect the other end of that same cable into the input jack on the router identified in the above step. Press the plugs into the jacks until you hear them click into place. This completes the connection between the incoming DSL line, DSL modem and the router.
Step 4
Connect the main computer to the router using a six-foot length of CAT5 cable. Plug in one end of the cable into the Ethernet port on the laptop or PC computer. Plug the other end of the CAT5 cable into the first available jack on the router. This will be labeled either "1" or "A." Press the plug into the router jack until you hear it click into place.
Step 5
Connect the provided power cable to your router and plug the other end into the nearest electrical outlet. Press the power switch on the router to turn it on. Turn on the computer and log in as normal. After both the router and the computer are turned on, follow the router configuration instructions provided by the router manufacturer.
Tips & Warnings
- Pay close attention to the "Port Forwarding" configuration step provided by your router setup instructions. Unless you have special needs where ports on your computers must be open, such as wireless security camera system access, special online chat program port settings or streaming video telephony, it is best to leave all port access from the Internet restricted for best security.
- A router blocks direct access to communication ports on your internal computers, but it does not protect against computer viruses found in some downloadable software applications. Always purchase and install an anti-virus program from a reputable company such as McAfee, AVAST, Norton or Microsoft.
References
- Netgear: Configuring Your Netgear Router
- Cisco: Setting Up a Linksys Router for DSL Internet Connection
Photo Credits
- Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images