A Beginner's Guide to Wireless Routers

Wireless routers are electronic devices that connect two or more networks to each other and send incoming data packets to the appropriate network. Essentially, this means that you can connect your computer to the Internet or even to a local printer without using cables to physically connect the devices.

With a wireless router, you can search the Internet while sitting in your backyard or check e-mail while lounging by the pool. Keep reading to learn more about wireless routers and to get tips on setting up a wireless router.

Wireless Routers: The Basics

In your home or office, your computers operate on what's known as a local area network (LAN). A LAN allows computers in close proximity to each other to share files, applications or a common printer. Your private home computer, even if not connected to anything else, can still be considered a LAN.

When operating on a LAN, the network is able to locate your computer through its Internet Protocol (IP) address. This address is the numeric address of a computer connected to the Internet. Once the network finds your computer, the LAN then connects to a wide area network (WAN). The most popular WAN is the Internet.

Without a wireless router, your computer must be physically connected to an access point to be recognized by the LAN. That is, your computer must be plugged into a modem. With a wireless router, your computer and other wireless devices can connect to the network without a physical connection. Using a variety of radio frequencies, a wireless router communicates with a wireless network card in your computer, allowing it to access the network wirelessly.

Prices for Wireless Routers

Prices for wireless routers vary greatly depending on model and manufacturer. For around $40, you can get a very basic wireless router. At the other extreme, you could spend more than $800 for a wireless router with additional support capabilities and security features.

Establishing a Wireless Network

In order to set up a wireless network you will need three things: a broadband Internet connection, a wireless router and a computer with either built-in wireless networking support or a wireless network adapter.

Once you have your equipment, follow these basic steps:

1. Connect your wireless router. First, follow the instructions on your router's box to connect your router to your modem.
2. Configure your wireless router. Using the network cable that came with your wireless router, temporarily connect your computer (which should already be turned on) to one of the open network ports on your wireless router. Your computer should automatically connect to your router.Next, open your Internet browser and type in the address to configure your router. You should be asked to supply a password. The address and password you need to use will vary depending on what type of router you purchased. Refer to the instructions included with your router.
3. Connect your computers to the network. If your computer doesn't have built-in wireless support, plug your wireless network adapter into your USB port and place the antenna on top of your computer (for a desktop) or insert the network adapter into an empty PC card slot (for a laptop). Your operating system should automatically detect the new adapter and may prompt you to insert the CD that came with the adapter. Follow the instructions on your computer screen to complete the configuration process.Once you have completed the configuration process, you should be able to click an icon on your desktop and view the available wireless networks. You should see your wireless network on the list. Click on your network. At this point you will probably be asked to enter your encryption key. Once this information is entered you will be able to connect to your wireless network.