A router is a smart type of Ethernet hub, one that helps make decisions regarding where information goes and offers protection from the wiles of the Internet for computers on a local area network. My advice is to use a router even if you have only one computer connected to a broadband modem.
As a bonus, consider getting a router with firewall protection. That fixes two problems with one solution. There are many such routers. I personally use the NETGEAR line.
Routers are often configured by accessing the router’s Web page. (Yes, it has its own Web page.) From the Web page, you can further configure the router or assist in its automatic configuration. You want to tell the router to block unwanted incoming traffic while still allowing the computers on your local network to access
and use each other’s resources.
Also direct the router to assign local IP addresses to each computer on the network. (Refer to Chapter 16 for information on IP addresses.) It’s usually done via a feature named DHCP. That’s a good thing! Take note of the router’s own IP address. You want to enter it in each PC’s network setup window, by entering the router’s IP address as the gateway for your network. If you have difficulty with this part, call your ISP’s tech support line, and someone there can help you. (After all, you pay the ISP for this type of support.)
Most of what a router does is technical, so don’t let it bother you if you can’t understand half the options. Most of the time, the default or standard setup is best.
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