DSL Modem Vs. Router
A local computer network has several ingredients which, at first glance, may not be easily distinguished from one another. You can do some things with a router that you can't do with a modem, and sometimes a modem can perform a few router duties.
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DSL Modem Basics
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A DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modem is for high-speed access to the Internet. This connection is separate from a phone line or cable TV connection and is always active.
Router Basics
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You can plug your DSL modem into a router, which allows you to connect multiple computers to that DSL connection. Both modems and routers can be wireless, in which case you connect with a "Wi-Fi adapter."
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Modem Connections
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Generally, you require a router to connect multiple computers to a modem, although some modems come with multiple ports. If you have only one computer on your network, a router is still handy because it contains a firewall.
Firewalls Explained
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A firewall helps to prevent unauthorized access to your network and the computers connected to it. It filters out data "packets" that the computers have not asked for.
Securing Modems and Routers
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If you have the wireless variety, both devices need to be protected with a WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) password. Otherwise, someone nearby with a Wi-Fi adapter can connect to your network and use its Internet connection.
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