Modern routers bundle many functions into one device. They protect your internal network from external access (firewall), provide an internal LAN (Local Area Network), enable shared Internet access, supply a method to connect wirelessly (Wireless Access Point), and provide a basic security set for you to block sites, log traffic, and the like. More expensive routers can provide content filtering, which restricts data traffic by type of sites (i.e. gambling), or by time of day. These Content filtering "subscriptions" are updated regularly and are often used in schools or computer labs. Access to your internal LAN from remote locations is possible when you purchase a router with VPN (Virtual Private Network) capability. Speed between sites is very important and the more expensive VPN routers will generally support faster connections. High end routers can also Virus scan data flowing in and out of your internal network (LAN). Carefully review all the features and capabilities of a router to best match your needs before purchasing it. For setup, simple routers are easier to setup. High end routers usually require help from a qualified consultant. Some Internet Providers will include the use of a combined "Modem/Router". If you wish, it's possible to configure this device as a "Gateway" and still use a router of your choice with features you require etc..
For basic networks, the following types of devices provide simple routing, firewall, and wireless capabilities:
- Linksys Wireless Broadband Router G (WRT54G2) - $50 Basic Good
- Linksys Wireless Broadband Router N (WRT160N) - $99 Basic Better
- D-Link Wireless Router Gigabit (DIR-655) - $110 - Basic Better
- D-Link Wireless Dual Band Router (WNDR3700) - $160 Basic Best
To provide VPN sesions (remote to internal LAN). For VPN always check available sessions. This defines the number of simultaneous VPN connections possible:
In situations where Content Filtering (and/or VPN) is needed (as in a school or computer lab), these routers can be configured to stop inappropriate content from even entering the network:
Comments (1)
Mark Shaw said
at 10:42 pm on Apr 2, 2009
Updated MAS 4-2-09
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