How to Buy a Wireless Broadband Router

Wireless networks are the latest entrants in the field of mobile computing. Wireless networks use wireless broadband routers to provide broadband wireless Internet connection to computers and LANs. While there are several varieties of wireless broadband routers available, there are a few factors that determine the compatibility of a wireless broadband router with your wireless Internet connection and computer. Read on to learn how to buy a wireless broadband router.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Figure out the number of ports required in the wireless broadband router by determining the number of computers that need to be connected to it. Remember to include all devices such as desktops, laptops and PDAs. Wireless broadband routers usually have LAN ports to allow connection to computers (or a network switch) through cables in addition to a wireless antenna. If your computers are equipped with wireless LAN cards, they do not need to be connected to the wireless broadband router through cables.

2. Determine the wireless standard used by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Knowing the wireless network standard used also gives you an idea of the rate of data transfer. This way, routers supporting the required data transmission rate can be explored. For instance, according to the 802.11a and 802.11g wireless networking standards (also known as Wi-Fi), 54Mbps should be the maximum data transfer rate. Both the standards however prescribe different operating frequencies. Newer versions of 802.11g even specify a transmission rate of 125 Mbps and higher. In contrast, 802.11n, the draft of new wireless networking standard, specifies data transfer at speed of 540Mbps.

3. Ensure data security in the wireless network by purchasing a Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) compatible router. Security is of prime concern in wireless networks. WEP, data encryption protocol for wireless networks secures data transmitted over radio signals. Wireless data security ensuring protocols more advanced than WEP offer Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 with WPA2 offering the maximum level of security in wireless networks.

4. Evaluate if you want a wireless router with an external or internal antenna. An external antenna gives better signal transmission, but may be cumbersome to carry around if the user is frequently mobile. Some wireless routers with an internal antenna have a port where an external antenna can be attached.

5. Assess other features of the wireless broadband router. Aside from connecting networks and enabling Internet connection sharing, routers can perform several other functions. Routers typically determine the shortest path of a data packet to its destination. Some routers additionally function as hubs or switches, provide additional firewalls and support port forwarding ability required to host a Web server. Remember that routers with more features also cost more.

6. Check the interface of the wireless router with your computers. In case of a single computer, you can connect the wireless router with an Ethernet cable, a USB cable or simply through the antenna. In case of Ethernet cable, your computer should be equipped with a LAN card with an Ethernet port. In case of USB router, you simply need a USB port on your computer. If your computer has a wireless LAN card, you do not need any cables to connect — the antenna of the wireless broadband router would communicate directly with your wireless LAN card. If connecting the router to a switch or a hub, the switch must either have an Ethernet port (all switches have this port) or have a wireless antenna.

7. Learn more about the features and prices of various wireless broadband routers by referring to online buyers’ guides. Browse through reviews and compare pricing. Some of the popular buyers’ guides are NexTag, Windows Marketplace, MySimon and Epinions.

8. Call your ISP after identifying a router. Check with the service provider if they sell the required wireless broadband router. Sometimes, ISPs lease routers for an extra monthly charge. If you need a multi-feature high-end router beyond your budget, leasing it in the beginning might be better option.

9. Alternatively, buy the wireless broadband router from online vendors, a list of which will be available in the above-mentioned buyers’ guides. Browse through popular online stores such as CompUSA, Best Buy and Circuit City.

Tips & Warnings

• Ergonomic shapes are easy-to-use. Try turning all knobs and handles to ensure that they are smooth and comfortable when used.
• Some vendors offer a combo pack of wireless router and network adapter (used in wireless LANs), both following the same standard. In addition to availability of compatible equipment, the combo pack is offered at rates more economical than individual prices of a router and network card.
• Data security is compromised if the wireless router and network adapter (for LANs) follow different protocols. To achieve the highest levels of security, ensure that the wireless network card and router follow the same wireless data security protocols.
• Deals offering lowest prices and huge discounts may not necessarily be available on the latest models. Check before buying.