Routers and Modems


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This page was originally written in the days (not so long ago) when the normal method of connecting to the Internet was by a dialup modem. The advent of broadband means that the term Modem now means something very different.  A Broadband modem (router) is now normally supplied by your Internet Service Provider (ISP) and they come in two main varieties - either for a BT land line type or one for a Cable system (e.g. Virgin Media). See Wikipedia Instead of being inside the computer the Modem is connected to a computer via an Ethernet port (or, if the computer does not have an Ethernet connection, can also be connected to a USB port).  However, Almost all home computers now have a wireless facility.  So it is likely that you will not need to have any cable betweeen it and the router.

All modern (PC) computers have one or more USB (Universal Serial Bus) sockets. Universal is a goof definition as it is capable of connecting to a router but also to a printer and many other devices such as memory sticks.

These days the equipment supplied by your ISP will be a Router. router  The Router's job is to sort out connections to several computers that use the same connection to the 'net'.  Routers have an internal wireless aerial and can be used to connect to from wireless equipment, including wireless printers. The set up of these pieces of equipment is normally taken care of by software within your computer.   If there is a problem it is best to get in touch with the router's supplier.. The one popular technique tried if your broadband modem/router is not making a connection is to reset it by disconnecting the power cable from the back, waiting a few seconds, then replacing that cable. It will not harm it and it is likely that it will reset the connection, hopefully to a better one.
All modern laptops, netbooks and "Pads"  or Tablets have internal wireless (Wi-Fi) hardware. Desktops MAY have this but can be made wireless by the addition of a cheap wireless USB 'dongle' pushed inbto one of its USB sockets. Equipment, such as mobile phones and most tablets do not have a socket to connect by cable to a router (and are therefore dependent on wireless)
The rear of the router looks like this, showing the sockets to which a number of PCs can be attached with inexpensive Ethernet cables router rear view

If your computers are normally close together there is no need to venture into the mysteries of wireless and, in fact, cable connections are less liable to be 'hacked' (got into) from outside and are usually faster than by wireless connection, especially if your device is a long way from the router or there are thick walls, ceilings or metal objects in between.

WIRELESS. Setting up a wireless connection has become easier these days. I realise that there are security questions but it is a pity they couldn't make it as simple as attaching a wireless mouse. I was always concerned that resetting the router attached to my desktop I might lose my internet connection altogether.  NOT SO. The router still keeps working regardless of whether or not the wireless connection is correctly set up.    Poke the reset button on the router (if you can find it) or simply disconnect the power briefly.  Wait until the lights show steadily.

In view of the relative cheapness and better speeds of broadband I have now deleted a detailed section which dealt with dialup modems. Dialup is simply not viable any more.

Please bear in mind that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are in a fiercely competitive market.  You should shop around.  Bear in mind the promised speed in your area; whether you are signing a contract and whether the cost includes the land line rental and in many cased telephone calls, eith at any time or juust at quiet periods, like weekends. They may also offer TV deals. If you require the fastest speeds, this may be delivered by cable from a nearby box in the street.  This could deliver over 100 megabits per second. My cheaper connection via the telephone line (via a box in the street about 100 meters away) gives a satifactory 33 Mb/s.
Once you have committed to a provider do not be surprised if they try to recoup the cost of their special offer by increasing the price. A call to them when you are out of contract may get you a better deal.  Almost certainly you will get a better deal by changing provider.  Many, in addition to Virgin now offer fast cable connections. Without cable your speed is dependent on your distance from the nearest BT box in the road.  Do a search.  Usually Plusnet, Shell, Sky and Talktalk are competitive.  Check what is included. Some will include line rental and some will offer free telephone calls. But also check on reliability scores and comments


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