Unless you’re an IT specialist or have set up multiple wireless networks, it can be tricky to tell the difference between different wireless devices. Let’s break it down and clear the air on all of these devices and what they do.
Mesh Wifi Explained – Which is Best? – Google Wifi
The core product of many home computer networks is a wireless router. These routers support all home computers configured with wireless network adapters (see below). They also include a network switch to allow some computers to be connected with Ethernet cables.
Wireless routers allow you to share cable modem and DSL Internet connections. In addition, many wireless router products include a built-in firewall that protects your home network from intruders.
Pictured above is the Linksys WRT54G. This is a popular wireless router product based on the 802.11g Wi-Fi networking standard. Wireless routers are small, box-like devices, generally less than 12 inches (0.3 m) long, with LED lights on the front and connection ports on the sides or back. Some wireless routers, such as the WRT54G, have external antennas that protrude from the top of the device; others contain built-in antennas.
