Networking hardware or equipment refer to the tools used for making networks work such as routers, cables, hubs, switches, access points, data cards, bridges, ISDN adapters and firewalls.
A network router is typically a networking device that can deliver voice, information, data, internet and wireless access. A router can definitely enhance the productivity of any organization be it big or small. Integrated routing services are gaining increasing demand nowadays by corporate and business enterprises owing to their state-of-the-art flexibility, compatibility, and security. In fact, network routers are used nowadays by individuals in homes owing to their immense capabilities to handle high bandwidth Internet allocations. People generally install a wireless router in their homes to take advantage of the Wi-Fi facility which gives them flexibility to use the internet from any corner of their homes.
A wireless router is ideally a small box that controls your network with indicator lights to ensure that it is working satisfactorily. Typically, one needs to just plug-in their broadband Internet connection into the router and experience the Wi-Fi connectivity up to about 200 to 300 meters depending on the model of equipment that you purchased. Wireless routers with stronger signals enjoy greater speed and flexibility over a larger distance coverage compared to those with weaker signals. Some of the best routers available in the market today are LinksysWRT610N, HP Media Smart Server LX195, Seagate Black Armor NAS 440(4TB), and of course, Cisco products which are known for their speed and performance.
When you install a network router in your home, ensure that it is placed in a central location away from walls or any metallic objects to have a good, strong signal. There are also numerous network routers that support hybrid networks which consist of a blend of Ethernet and Wi-Fi clients. With a wide range of routers that are available today, you have to review the models to pick your choice discretely. The D-Link network router is a small model featuring 128bit WEP and is ideal for small places. Cisco, Linksys, SeaGate and Netgear wireless network routers are doing exceptionally well in the arena of network management.
Going wireless is in vogue recently; many people and businesses prefer using network routers from the entire range of network equipment that is available today. The main benefits of using a network router are:
- A network router is multifunctional facilitating many audio visual, voice, and wireless security systems through a single device which would prove to be extremely beneficial for any organization.
- Routers support sophisticated networking applications in one go.
- An integrated wireless router will gives network access to residences and commercial offices situated even in remote places.
- Routers facilitate centralized management. A router located in a central location can effectively manage, regulate and control wireless controls in various locations.
- They are extremely secure and reliable.
- Many multinational corporations install network routers to protect valuable corporate data while being transmitted with encryption.
- Network routers facilitate firewall filtering, thereby inhibiting unauthorized access.
- Highly Effective antivirus protection is provided.
- These routers also identify and detect and intruders that try to break into the network and prevent them for barging in.
Many companies are turning to refurbished Cisco equipment in order to get top-performing equipment at a great cost savings. Quality, renovated routers and switches from Nortel, HP and 3com, and VOIP or other company telephone systems such as Nortel or Avaya phones can also be purchased used at discount prices and with warranties often better than new.
The bottom line is that you have to choose your network router based on your requirements, whether for commercial or domestic purpose. Utilizing a router is indeed extremely beneficial to independent users at home as well as big corporate environments owing to its cost effectiveness, simplicity of installation and reduced operating expenses.