Broadband Routers

Broadband routers are usually described as being a combination of a Network Address Translator and an Ethernet hub or switch. Most broadband routers include a dynamic host configuration Protocol server and a Domain Name Service proxy server. Broadband routers also protect their LAN lines from the public by providing a hardware firewall.

All routers need to have a Wide Area Network Port, or WAN. The WAN port connects to the cable or DSL for the broadband service. The most popular broadband service is the Internet.

There are different ports that will support different cables and modems. Check to make sure you are using the right type of device to make the data transfer.

A lot of the latest broadband routers use a combination of broadband routers and the Ethernet switch. That way you can have multiple Ethernet ports open at the same time. Having multiple ports connect to more than one PC can form a LAN, and be very nice.

Multiple ports allow the computers to share the WAN port with the Internet connection. This forms great LAN performances, such as sharing the same file and sharing printers. Other routers are only developed to have one WAN port, and a single LAN port, so they can connect to an already established LAN hub or switch.

Ethernet switches and hubs can be connected to a routers with a lot of ports in able to expand a LAN line. There are various ports that are available. Some ports may require straight-thru or crossover cables to make the connection possible.

USB connections are a popular choice with some router Ethernet ports. They are able to use the USB connection to connect the computer on a LAN. A lot of connections have wireless LAN options.

Ethernet ports can have a serial port instead of a WAN port. Serial ports can be connected to external dial-up modems. Dial-up modems are usually only used now as a backup for the DSL service.