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"Here a Router, There a Router"
by Ralph Moore
1) What's a router?
If you're thinking, "Hey, I've got one of those in my wood
shop!", remember we're talking computer networks here.
A router is a hardware device that allows the computers on
your network to talk to the systems on another network.
It also gives you some measure of intelligence and control.
Just as a school crossing guard controls the flow of people
and vehicles, a router controls the flow of information, so
that everything goes where it needs to, safely and quickly.
2) Why do I need one?
If your business is like most, you are finding the need to
move increasing amounts of email, web pages, documents,
graphic images, and other business files to your associates
and customers. And you probably use the internet most of
the time to do this.
You, or one of your employees may also need to log onto your
network, while on a business trip, or from home, to retrieve
an important file. And since you might not want someone like
"Darth Vader" wandering around your network, a router is the
logical choice to allow needed access while providing much
needed security controls at the same time.
3) What should I look for in a router?
In the first place, your router must be able to connect
between the Internet access device, usually a cable or xDSL,
or faster, modem, and your network interface, which is
usually an "ethernet", or "fast ethernet" connection.
(This looks like a telephone jack or plug, only bigger.)
Next, your router should support "DHCP", which assigns a
number to each computer on your network, and makes sure
traffic is "routed" correctly, hence the name.
Your router needs to allow all of the various internet
protocols such as HTML, FTP, etc., as well as any relevant
Internet programs, like your browser, to work with the
systems on your network.
Finally, your router should serve as a "firewall" to control
access from the outside world into your network, keeping
the "bad guys" out, while letting the "good guys" in.
4) Where can I get one?
You should be able to find a router at your local computer
dealer, online, or at an electronics or office supply store.
5) Can I install it myself?
Hey, if you can program a VCR, you might just be able to
get a router up and running, and save yourself some money
in the process. If, on the other hand, the thought of
setting up computer hardware makes you cringe, then call
a network professional to help you.
Some of the newer hardware can be set up using a standard
web browser. One such router is from LinkSys. They have
a variety of routers, one of which I use and recommend.
Watch for a review of their BEFSR41 in a future issue.
In today's networked world, no small business can afford to
be without the control, security and efficiency of a router.
Ralph Moore is the editor of the FREE Eagle Flyer Newsletter,
which offers "How To Technology and Tips That Can Multiply
Your Business Online". To subscribe to the Eagle Flyer and
receive a FREE report, visit: Eagle Flyer
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