How Does a Broadband Router Work?

How wireless-b routers work

The wireless-B router connects to a cable or DSL modem. The signal is split by the broadband router to all computers on the network. The network can be made available to any of the computers in your home or office. The Internet signal is shared. Also, all computers can connect with all other computers on the network provided by the interconnectivity of the broadband router. Routers connect multiple networks together as well as other routers. The broadband router comes with a server and firewall. All computers using the server connection are protected by the firewall.

How broadband routers connect computers to the Internet


Typically, a home Internet connection consists of the DSL or cable modem, a broadband router, and two or more computers. The cable or DSL line is connected from the cable line or phone line to an external modem. The modem is then connected to a broadband router. From the broadband router, the signal is split. Each computer is given an IP address from the broadband router's DHCP server. Because of the DHCP server, each computer station in your home or office is given a route to access the Internet. Some routers can be purchased by the ISP provider directly. By purchasing or renting the broadband router the user does not have to haggle with compatibility between the computer and the router. Also, a broadband router from an ISP can replace the need for an extra modem and wiring. Some routers from ISP providers may include the modem inside the router.

How Ethernet is connected between a router and a computer

On the back of a computer or laptop, there is an Ethernet port. This port is connected to a router through an Ethernet cable, which looks like an extra thick phone cord. The Ethernet connection may sometimes need to be enabled, particularly if you are switching from wireless broadband to a direct connection to your router. On your computer it is a simple matter to open the control panel in Windows and click on "View available connections." Double-clicking the LAN connection will allow your computer to connect to the broadband router through a direct Ethernet connection. Simply plug the Ethernet cable in to the router and your computer.