What is a router and how does it work?

 Publish: 16 Sep 2024, 07:36 pm   |   Definition

What is a router and how does it work?

Believe or not this is a hyper-connected world. You have to be connected always. But to ensure this connectivity you need to make sure that you have fast and reliable internet access. But how do you do that? Simply know more about What a router is and how it works! Because nowadays it's important to use a router to access the internet, manage data traffic, and ensure that each connected device receives the right data at the right time. 

What is a router? 

Router is not just a box with blinking lights. It is a network device. Basically this kind of device forwards data between different devices on a network. You can use it as a traffic controller for your internet. This middleman between your devices and the internet have IP addresses. 

Why do you have to use a router?

We already knew that What a router is, right? But do you know what the primary purpose of a router is? 


Well! It works as a route data between different networks. And here different networks mean the local home network (LAN) and the internet (WAN). Also as a user you can get a layer of security from a router. And this security would be maintained between your devices and the broader internet. 

How does the router work? 

Now it's time to know how the router works! A router's job is providing connection. Now you can be like why we have to know how it works! Well knowing the process you can solve any troubleshoot issues or choose the right router for your needs. So don’t ignore that point. Let's know how does it work, step by step: 


Packet-Switching: Packet-Switching means a process of moving data between devices. It will break your Data into smaller chunks, called packets. Then your data will be sent over the network. As the destination they need the right IP address. 


Routing Tables: At this step they will store information about the different networks. It's like you are using a GPS that uses real-time data to get your right location the right way. That's it! Easy, quickly and efficiently! 

Types of Routers

Answer of that it is a router and how it works isn't necessary to know much more about Routers. Side by side you also have to know types of Routers. Basically there are 2 main types of Routers. Let's talk about those: 


Wired Routers

To read the name you already got the point, right? You can connect it to devices using Ethernet cables. If you always prioritise your stability and security in your business then use Wired Routers. Because this kind of connectivity is faster and more reliable than wireless connections. 


Wireless Routers

Wireless Routers are the most popular type of Routers nowadays. Everyone is obsessed with it. If you need any connector for multiple devices to connect to the internet without the need for physical cables then blindly you can trust Wireless Routers. Wireless Routers are the most faithful connector for homes, cafes, and small offices.


Also there is another type which called Advanced Routers. For any larger homes or businesses you can use it. Also it will make sure that your Wi-Fi network covers a larger area without signal drops!


Router problems and solutions

What is a router and how does it work can help you at this point. Remember that Router is the most important thing for us nowadays. That's why sometimes we have to face a lot of problems just using a Router. Let me explain you some Router problem & solution: 


Slow Internet Speeds

This is a really common problem for Wi-Fi users. If you can't use your internet smoothly then test the speed. At that point you can take help from any speed test tool. It will help you to know if you’re getting the speeds promised by your ISP or not. For fixing this problem you have to reposition your router or update its firmware. Also make sure that you placed that machine in a central location, away from walls or any obstructions for better network speed. 


Connection Drops

Connection Drops means your strangling to use your network or its always stacking at the same point. Sometimes it can happen when your device interferencing with other devices. So to deal with it make sure that you are changing your router’s Wi-Fi channel. Try to move it to a different location. Also make sure that your Router is not overheating or outdated, as this can affect performance. 


IP Conflicts

Lastly we will talk about IP Conflicts. It will happen when two devices on the same network use the same ip. As a result you have to face connectivity issues and slow down your internet. To resolve this restart your router or assign static IP addresses to your devices. 


How to Choose the Right Router? 

When choosing a router, you have to know some important factors. Specially:


  1.  Check the Bandwidth Requirements. Because using the internet on multiple devices you need to check Bandwidth Requirements. Basically bandwidth capacity is always measured in Mbps or Gbps. Buy more you can afford! 


  1. Do you have a Number of Devices? If you have then you must need higher device capacity. So try to buy Mesh systems or advanced routers.  


So if you are looking for the best router for your home or business then always be careful with these factors. 


Warming Up

Who told you that knowing what a router is and how it work Isn't actually worth it? Remember that a router is crucial for everyone. So connect multiple devices to the internet in the right way. Be a tech pro! 


FAQ 

What exactly does a router do?

Router work between devices in a network and the internet. Its connected to your internet service provider (ISP).  If you want to use WiFi for smartphones, computers, and smart home devices the you must have connected with router. 


Are routers and WiFi the same?

Absulatly not! Both are different. A router is a device work for data. Wi-Fi is the wireless technology & it's help to connect onw device to another device. 


What is the function of a router?

It's actually direct and manage data traffic.  This machine or system can direct and manage data traffic between networks. 


Can I use a router without the Internet?

Yes! You can. Because router can always manage a local area network (LAN). So if you don't have any net connection then still have a way to use it. 


Can I use a router without a modem?

Yeap! You can. But if you want the router to connect to the internet you must need the modem.