Wireless router

A Linksys wireless-g router

See also: Wireless access point

A Wireless router is a device that performs the functions of a router but also includes the functions of a wireless access point and a network switch. They are commonly used to allow access to the Internet or a computer network without the need for a cabled connection. It can function in a wired LAN (local area network), a wireless only LAN (WLAN), or a mixed wired/wireless network. Most current wireless routers have the following characteristics:

• LAN ports which function in the same manner as the ports of a network switch
• A WAN port to connect to a wide area network, typically one with Internet access. External destinations are accessed using this port. If it is not used, many functions of the router will be bypassed.
• A wireless antenna allows connections from other wireless devices (NICs (network interface cards), wireless repeaters, wireless access points, and wireless bridges, for example), usually using the Wi-Fi standard.

Some wireless routers also include a DSL or cable modem in addition to their other components.

Major manufacturers

• 3Com
• Apple Inc.
• Asus
• Belkin
• Buffalo Technology
• D-Link
• Linksys
• Motorola
• Netgear
• Mikrotik
• Steele Inc.
• TP-Link
• ZyXEL Communications Corp.

External links

• Wireless router basics