what is a router?

Question

i dont know much about computers. i just got a compaq laptop and they say to get the internet connection i need a router..
what is that all about??

Answer 1

Basic terms:

Cable Modem: This is your connection to the Internet via your provider (ie: Comcast). You usually can buy one or rent one from your provider. **** QWEST actually sends out a router/cable modem.

Router: A router allows multiple computers to connect to each other and the Internet. They usually come with a firewall built-in. You can also get wireless routers.

Router/Modem: Combines both the connection to the ISP (modem) and multiple computers (router) in one box. As stated earlier, QWEST usually sends out those boxes. The advantage of having a router/modem everything is wrapped up in one box, and easy to maintain.

Now, if you already have an Internet connection, you should be able to connect it to your new computer and be on the Internet.

If its your first computer, you will need to get a Internet provider, and the equipment that goes with it. Usually your provider will be able to help set you up.

Good luck!!

Answer 2

First of all, you don't need one if you only have one computer.
Basically what a router does is splits your internet connection between multiple computers, and allows them to connect wirelessly in the case of some routers. However, a router does not replace a modem. So, for basic use, unless you want a wireless connection, don't worry about a router. Just get a modem for DSL, cable, etc.

Answer 3

The machines that connect the phone lines to each LAN (local area network) are special computers called routers. These reduce and help direct the "traffic" on a network. I think a modem would take care of your problem.

Answer 4

I router is used when you have 2 or more computers and you want to "route" your internet to all of them. Not needed unless you have more than one pc.

Answer 5

router is something that you need when you have mutiple internet connections. suppose if you have 2 computers and you need to share the internet thats when you need a router.
U DONT NEED IT FOR SINGLE COMPUTER!

Answer 6

router is for people who want to use the internet at the same time with dsl or comcast high speed internet

Answer 7

it is the device that is the go between your computer and the internet cloud, it will assing your computer with an IP address and serve as the gateway to the internet, some also have built in firewalls for security.

Answer 8

a router is like a modem (modulate and demodulate) a modem turns a analog signal to digital information then back to a analog signal so that it can b read.

Answer 9

is a devic that connects to computers

Answer 10

this might help!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Router

http://www.cc.jyu.fi/~eerwall/router.htm

Hope I helped!