As everything is changing to a wireless version, it is not surprising that wireless routers are so popular among Internet users. However, just because you use wireless technology in your day-to-day life does not necessarily mean you understand how it works. For example, you may wonder how does a wireless router work?
This is a good question, as the router is the device that connects you to the Internet and allows you to use it. And while on wired routers, you can see the wire connecting it to the modem, wireless routers may confuse you in how they operate.
How Does a Wireless Router Work
A wireless router connects to a modem via a cable, allowing it to receive data from the modem and transmit it to the Internet. The wireless router creates and communicates with a home’s WiFi network through its built-in antennas. This then provides all devices in a home network with Internet access.
How Do Wireless Routers Operate
A wireless router allows your computer to access the Internet by connecting a base set to an internet connection. Users of computers can work online without a cable connection thanks to wireless routers.
Wireless routers take the binary established to facilitate by your ISP and transfer it across the air to a compatible receiving device using radio waves broadcast over the 802.11 frequency.
Every new device that joins the network receives a unique IP address from the router, and most household routers can accommodate 250 simultaneous connections, at least in principle. Modern routers split one internet signal into at least a dozen different directions, providing customers with security features like firewalls and parental controls.
With the help of these tools, you can keep an eye on and manage the traffic traveling from the modem to the router and back again, functioning as the gatekeeper or bodyguard who decides what your family can view at any time.
QoS control, media servers (through USB), MU-MIMO beam splitting, mesh networking, and even antivirus options on certain select models are some additional functions that have been added to the list of router features.
Regarding security, wireless routers use “WiFi Protected Access,” or WPA, to protect your connection from outside dangers that could attempt to access your network and hack you.
Also read: How Does a Switch Work
Wireless Router Overview
A WiFi router, sometimes referred to as a wireless router or a WLAN, is a device that makes it easier for your home’s electronic devices to connect to the Internet. The router connects devices within one network by forwarding data packets between them.
A cable input socket, a few LAN output connections, a few antennae, and buttons are featured on most WiFi routers. The designs of routers can differ from brand to brand and depend on the router’s power.
Similar to phones, there are several WiFi routers, including entry-level models ideal for tiny flats, larger models better suited for offices and cafes, and more robust models for gaming.
Frequencies used by wireless routers
WiFi uses radio waves that travel at a specific frequency to communicate. There are two categories of frequency bands that wireless routers currently use. These are the older 5Ghz and the more prevalent 2.4Ghz. Single-band routers are WiFi access points that can only operate at the 2.4 GHz frequency. On the other hand, dual-band routers support both the 2.4 GHz and the 5 GHz bands.
You probably use the 2.4Ghz frequency if you have WiFi at home but are unaware of these two bands. This band is also the frequency used by other devices like Bluetooth devices, microwave ovens, etc., because it is adequate for most types of equipment.
Related: How to Hide Modem and Router
Wireless Router Advantages
The wireless router serves as a bridge between the Internet and your devices. However, that is not all it does. The router may perform many things to improve your experience because it acts as a middleman. You should know that your wireless router has many more advantages to offer. Some of them are explained below.
Block users
You can always see what gadgets are linked to your wireless router and block unauthorized users, such as a neighbor who figured out how to steal your password. With your wireless router, you will have complete control over allowing and blocking access to other devices. By blocking users on your network that you do not recognize, you protect yourself against theft.
Allocate bandwidth
You can also assign specific speeds to your router’s devices. You may modify the router’s settings too. For example, allow your work laptop to use the maximum speed while capping all home smartphones at 1 Mbps. This advantage is excellent for those who have remote jobs by allowing them to have speedy internet access without interruptions to their workflow.
USB port
Many high-end wireless routers include a USB port, which enables a wide range of applications. For instance, you might use this connector to connect an external hard drive and access it wirelessly from all of your networked devices. You can set up some wired printers to connect to this USB port and operate wirelessly with various devices.
Read more: How to Connect a Router to a Modem Wirelessly
Parental controls
As the name implies, your wireless router can restrict access to specific websites and the amount of bandwidth given to each device. Parental controls are an excellent aid for users with children as it allows them to keep their kids safe online. Your kids may search for no-children-friendly content, and you will be able to see it. This will allow you to cut off their access to such pages and content.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wireless routers are an excellent addition to a person’s home as they do not take up a lot of space or require wires upon wires. And if you wonder how does a wireless router work, we have it all explained above. With a wireless router, your devices can easily connect to the Internet without having to plug them into anything.