What is the difference between routers. Description and comparison

There are nuances about which it is advisable to know and then you can already start action and buy a router.

Before a responsible action, buy a router, you need to understand why you need it at all, and figure out an interesting nuance - what to buy ... a router or a router.

And so, it is a small networked computer with several network interfaces.

Its main task is to forward data packets between different network segments. If it is shorter and clearer, the router shares the Internet with other devices.

Let's figure out how a router differs from a router and whether the difference between them is significant.

I will reveal a great secret, NOTHING, except for the size and design of the device. And such an opportunity happened due to the fact that Anglo-lovers refer to the product as "router" and the word stuck to the Russian-router.

Nevertheless, it somehow sounds not in Russian and the name router was adopted. Here are all the differences that are not technically available.

If there is no difference, which router or router is right for me?

I must say right away that different brands of routers (routers) differ in their capabilities and functionality, and for home use, especially for a twisted router, it is not needed a router.

How are they different?

Firstly, the presence and features of Wi-Fi modules. This is especially interesting in conjunction with the TV.

Why?

Your TV may be located at a considerable distance from the actual point of connection to the Internet. Pulling the cable is also not particularly entertaining.

In this regard, the owners of TVs with the Wi-Fi Ready marking are lucky - they support and are already adapted to the installation of a wireless module.

A receiver for such a technique is a small card that complies with the PCMCIA standard or its equivalent. The Wi-Fi receiver only needs activation, which can be done in the TV's system settings menu.

Well, if the TV is designed only for cable connection but I want to connect it to a router that has an antenna or even two Wi-Fi antennas.

It is possible, but not necessary, this is done through a connection via a USB receiver. If you do not know, then this is the same as a regular adapter for a computer.

Or in simple terms, like a regular flash drive, it differs only in increased size and sometimes in the presence of a folding antenna.

To everyone else you will need a set-top box that can be connected via a standard network connector.

The set-top box is a simplified router that receives Wi-Fi signals and transmits them further through a cable to the TV.

But what if the TV is old and does not support Smart TV?

You will be helped by a set-top box that connects to the device via the HDMI connector. In fact, such an HDMI set-top box is a full-fledged computer, or on another OC.

It is desirable that the HDMI set-top box has the following minimum characteristics:

Modern dual-core processor with an operating frequency of over 1.2 GHz;
From 512 MB of built-in RAM;
Separate video chip.

Also pay attention to the compliance of these devices (router and HDMI-set-top box) in their differences in standards, as well as the transmitter power, on which the detection range and connection stability depend.

Also, when choosing a router, you need to look at the number and speed of ports for connecting network wires. Installed USB connectors for general access to the printer. But this, if there is such a need.

The presence of a GSM receiver is also interesting. Support for various standards of connection to the provider's network and stability of work.

But there is another feature and this is the Type of your Internet access.

Many will have ADSL

This connection works through a telephone line, through which you can simultaneously call and use the Internet. The maximum speed is not that great, only a few tens of megabits per second.

Ethernet (FTTB)

Everyone's dream, fiber optic cable. The fastest kind of connection. The speed is high and reaches 100 megabits or more.

Nothing more than mobile internet. The speed is limited by the capabilities of the telecom operator and the quality of the coverage.
However, there are combined models that can distribute the network received from different sources.

It should be borne in mind that there are several communication standards with different speeds:

802.11 a - up to 54 Mbps;
802.11 b - up to 11 Mbps;
802.11 g - up to 54 Mbps;
802.11 n - up to 600 Mbps;
the latest 802.11 ac - over 1 Gbps.

The 2015-2016 models are equipped with support for the 802.11 n standard, as well as support for 802.11 ac, although they are expensive.

Ask what standard do I need?

The main thing to know is that it all depends on the speed of the Internet your provider presents to you. Do you mean if you have an old router (the same router) or it does not support high-speed standards, then it will simply cut the speed of the Internet channel.

Budget models are capable of exchanging data at speeds up to 150 megabits, although in practice it is less. More advanced devices provide up to 300 Mbit, and the most sophisticated ones provide more. Note that a very rare internet service provider offers speeds above 100 Mbps.

Antenna

Budget employees and, by definition, low-power Wi-Fi routers are equipped with one antenna. However, I note that the more expensive and more powerful models have two or even more antennas. In principle, the simplest router is quite enough for an apartment, that is, one antenna.

Be sure to encrypt the Wi-Fi communication channel!

I think everyone has a router, but all of them, they can be hacked or simply hacked.

All routers support WEP, WPA / WPA-2 communication security standards. The latter is considered the most reliable, I recommend choosing it.

Now you know why this box with an antenna is needed and how to buy a router from a store seller.

And it doesn't matter if it's a router or a router!

And make your choice, first of all, based on the availability of the options you need.

An important lesson after the purchase is the installation of the router, and what may arise.

Good luck Friends!

Nowadays, it is more and more difficult to find a house in which there is no Wi-Fi network, local or with Internet access. Almost everyone knows or at least once heard about devices such as a router and a router, the difference between which is of interest to many.

Both of these devices perform one function - creating a home local network with access to the world wide web. However, in order to understand what is the difference between a router and a router, you should take a closer look at what kind of equipment it is.

A router allows you to create a local area network between two or more computers. At the same time, the connection can be either exclusively local or with Internet access.

Basically, it is the equipment that allows you to send and receive packets of data.

It is worth noting that modern devices can work wirelessly, that is, according to the Wi-Fi standard, transmitting data over radio channels. This makes networking much easier. The router has built-in software to control the device and network settings. It gives the user a set of tools to secure the network and manage connections.

Now, to understand what is the difference between a router and a router, let's answer the question what is a router. The name itself suggests that this is a device that creates certain routes. This means that the machine is forwarding data packets.

For this, the router has built-in software - protection and packet forwarding tools. In addition, there are functions for managing connections, setting bandwidth, and so on.

That is, in other words, it is a device that allows you to create a local network between two or more computers (or other network equipment), and manage it. From here it becomes clear that in fact a router and a router are one and the same, only in different words.

Which is better to choose

Quite often the question is, which is better - a router or a router? Considering all of the above, the answer suggests itself - there is no difference. These are two names for one gadget. Therefore, in fact, there is nothing to choose from. Both names are the definition of one gadget, which can be either exclusively wired or wireless.

Such devices can have from 2 or more interfaces for connecting a network cable (RJ45), which allows you to connect computers. At the same time, there is also a wireless connection for connecting laptops, smartphones and other equipment equipped with Wi-Fi adapters.

If we talk about how a Wi-Fi router differs from a router, it should be noted that if the functions of the devices are identical, the Wi-Fi standards themselves may be different. That is, when choosing and buying wireless network equipment, first of all, you should pay attention to what standards it supports.

There are several main versions of Wi-Fi that are most often used in everyday life:

• 802.11b is an obsolete but still fairly common standard. Its main difference is that it operates in the 2.4GHz frequency range. The bandwidth does not exceed 11 Mbps.
• 802.11g is a newer version than the previous one, but it is also obsolete. It works in the same frequency (2.4 GHz), but allows you to accelerate the data transfer rate up to 54 Mbps.
• 802.11n is a new standard that operates at 5 GHz and allows data transfer rates up to 300 Mbps. There is an even newer version of AC, but it is rare. N is currently the most common Wi-Fi operating mode.

In addition to all of the above, differences may be at the model level. Routers and routers are made by different manufacturers, each of which produces different models - from budget to expensive flagship ones. The difference between the models may lie in the stability of operation, the number of interfaces for connecting computers and other equipment (printers, TVs, scanners, faxes, and so on), as well as in the power of the antenna.

Nowadays, any modern office must be equipped with a Wi-Fi router, moreover, almost all restaurants and cafeterias provide their visitors with the ability to connect via a wireless network. And, of course, most of the users of the world wide web, when they spend the Internet in their homes and apartments, give the advantage of this particular technology. It is not difficult to explain this: the fact is that this technology allows you to provide a good Internet connection to several devices at once, without limiting yourself and the rest of the wires.
In stores, you can find a huge number of routers that differ not only in price, but also in the strength of the outgoing signal, range, build quality and other parameters. How to choose the best Wi-Fi router for yourself or for your office?

First, you need to determine for what purpose the wireless router will be used. If you need a powerful device capable of providing fast and high-quality communication with a speed of at least 600 Mbps in a large room, then the Linksys EA6900 will do. This American brand, represented by Belkin International, is renowned for its quality networking products for the office and home. The EA6900 is capable of delivering a superior signal with a maximum speed of 1300 Mbps. This router uses beamforming technology to improve the signal. In addition, the Linksys EA6900 allows you to control your computer using another computer, tablet or smartphone from anywhere. This router is really good, buyers may be confused only by its price. The average price of this device is about 12 thousand rubles. Therefore, not every user will be able to purchase it.

Asus RT-N66U can compete with this router. The Thai company Asus needs no introduction, this brand has a large number of fans. The fact is that the company produces good products for a relatively low price. As for the RT-N66U router, it has a large coverage radius, a powerful signal in two bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), two USB ports, practicality and compact size. It lets you share files, stream HD video and connect to game consoles. Those wishing to purchase this device will cost about 5 thousand rubles.
For those looking for a budget router, the small Tenda N3 will do. This Chinese company is one of the leaders in the production of network equipment; in China, more than 40% of all routers are manufactured by this company. Tenda N3 can provide several times better speed and coverage than other 802.11g routers. In addition, it can be easily connected and configured in just three steps. And its cost is only 700-800 rubles. All in all, this router is one of the best in its price range.

Choosing the best Wi-Fi router from the listed ones is difficult, since they differ in price. However, the most optimal one can be considered a router from Asus. It can provide excellent signal, wide coverage, a range of advanced features that today's users need, all at an affordable price. This versatile device is suitable for any office, cafe, home or apartment.

A router is a very complex device with many technical characteristics. We will focus on those that play an important role for the buyer.

WAN port type and connection protocols

The WAN (or Internet) connector is used to connect an Internet cable to the router. This is the first detail to look out for when buying a device. The compatibility of the selected model with the provider depends on it.

A typical router has one of two WAN port formats:

1. DSL(ADSL, VDSL and other subtypes) - to connect to the Internet via a telephone line.
2. Ethernet- to connect through a special provider channel.

There are also universal routers that support several formats, including DSL and Ethernet. But they are much less common.

First, find out what technical requirements your Internet service provider has for your router. Visit the provider's official website or call support.

In addition to the WAN port format, technical requirements may include connection protocols with which the router must be compatible.

If, instead of DSL and Ethernet, the provider uses specific connection technologies, which rarely happens, then it is better to trust specialists in the choice and equipment.

Number and type of LAN ports

Computers, consoles, TVs and other stationary equipment that need stable wired access to the Network are connected to the LAN ports of the router. This connection always guarantees the maximum speed, which is independent of distance and interference.

And the more such connectors there are in the router, the more devices you can connect to it via a wire. Typically, routers are equipped with four LAN ports. But if this is not enough for you, choose a model with additional connectors.

The maximum speed of data exchange between the router and other devices connected to it via a wire depends on the type of LAN ports.

There are two such types:

1. Fast Ethernet provides speeds up to 100 Mbps.
2. Gigabit Ethernet- up to 1 Gbps.

If your provider offers Internet access at speeds of more than 100 Mbps, choose a router model with Gigabit Ethernet ports. This will help you make the most of your channel.

Wi-Fi standards

The maximum possible speed of data exchange between the router and the fleet of devices connected to it wirelessly depends on the Wi-Fi standard. Two standards are relevant:

1. 802.11n- a widespread version that is supported by the vast majority of gadgets. Possible speed - up to 600 Mbps.
2. 802.11ac- the increasingly popular standard, provides the highest speed - up to 6.77 Gbps.

But don't be confused by the specs: these values ​​are only theoretically possible within the technology. Real speed indicators are much lower.

The speed indicated by the manufacturer is also often unattainable in practice. This is only a possible value, excluding distance and interference.

Thanks to backward compatibility, you can connect any gadgets via WI-Fi to a router with the 802.11ac standard. Even though they only support 802.11n and older. But to unleash the full potential of 802.11ac, both the router and all other devices on your wireless network must support this standard.

You don't have to chase the novelty and buy an 802.11ac router. If you only use the Internet for web surfing and office tasks, you can save money and get by with the 802.11n model.

Number of Wi-Fi bands

Some routers can operate simultaneously in different frequency bands. In this mode, the router is capable of supporting not one, but several independent Wi-Fi networks at once.

Many popular models are able to distribute data transfer between two ranges. Thus, they create two networks at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, respectively.

1. Frequency 2.4 GHz ideal for connecting smartphones and office equipment.
2. Frequency 5 GHz provides a more stable and faster connection, and therefore is better suited for multimedia devices that work with video and other heavy content. So, if you don't want to connect a TV or set-top box via wires, you can use Wi-Fi at a frequency of 5 GHz.

These networks can operate in parallel without limiting each other. But again, their total speed will not exceed the limit set by the Internet provider.

In addition, not all gadgets support the 5 GHz network.

Number and type of antennas

In addition to the standard and frequency of Wi-Fi, the speed of the wireless network depends on the number of antennas in the router. The more there are, the faster the exchange of data between the connected devices and the router.

The 802.11n Wi-Fi speed limit for the single antenna model is 150 Mbps. With two - 300 Mbit / s, with three - 450 Mbit / s. That is, with each antenna, the maximum possible speed increases by 150 Mbps. And in the 802.11ac standard - at 433 Mbps.

Recall that we are talking about theoretically possible speeds under ideal conditions. In fact, these figures are much lower. In addition, do not forget that the final speed of Internet access via Wi-Fi cannot exceed the provider's limit.

Antennas can be built-in or external. As practice shows, in the conditions of a typical city apartment, the type of antennas is not so important. Contrary to popular myth, the difference is subtle.

But for large rooms it is still worth choosing a router with external antennas, so as not to have it. In addition, if the external antennas are removable, if necessary, they can be replaced with more powerful ones.

USB port

By choosing a router with one or a pair of USB ports, you can connect additional devices to it. For example, a USB stick will provide remote access to shared file storage from any device on a Wi-Fi network. And a wireless USB modem will become your backup way to go online if the cable Internet stops working.

Brief instructions for choosing

Let's go through the key points of the article again. This checklist will help you choose a good router.

1. Find out the provider's requirements for the router: the type of WAN connector and connection protocols. Only then choose a model.
2. If the Internet speed is higher than 100 Mbps, buy a device with LAN ports of the Gigabit Ethernet format (1 Gbps). If the speed is lower, Fast Ethernet connectors (100 Mbps) will suffice.
3. If you need access to the Network only for browsing websites and working with documents, you can limit yourself to a router with one antenna and support for the wireless 802.11n standard.
4. But if you watch streaming video, play online games, use a lot of wireless devices, often download large files and are not used to denying yourself, then choose a dual-band router with multiple antennas and support for 802.11ac.
5. If you want, you can buy a model with a USB port to connect a storage device or a wireless modem to it.

Watching movies, texting, teleworking, online video conferencing are just a few examples of what the Internet has brought to our lives. Networking technologies are becoming more prevalent, and in many homes, having multiple networked devices is the norm, and in some cases even a necessity. Usually, a certain device is engaged in servicing such a household. They call it differently, but not many people understand the difference. Today we will figure out how a router differs from a router and whether the difference between them is significant.

The functionality of a router and a router is no different

Is there a difference between a router and a router

I will answer right away, I will not grind water in a mortar. There is absolutely no difference between these concepts. These two names are synonymous and are used depending on the preferences of the speaker. The word "router" is just a transliteration of the English word "router", the translation of which into Russian sounds like "router". If you think a little, then it is easy to give several similar examples.

The confusion in concepts has gone, most likely, because of home-grown "specialists". Some argue that a required attribute of a router is Wi-Fi connectivity, while a router only allows you to connect using wires. Others loudly declare that a router is such a small home box, but a router is serious equipment of the provider level. Well, the third are confused in terms, claiming that the difference is in the number of ports for connecting different peripherals. There are those who confuse everything with everything. Be that as it may, if you have a need to understand the subject, you should trust either a really sensible specialist, or find the necessary information on an authoritative resource on the Internet, since it is not difficult.

What should I choose

Let's clarify some of this confusion. Basically, any router is a small highly specialized computer, the only purpose of which is to transfer data packets between different networks. The fact that we are talking about synonyms, we have already decided, it is worth mentioning some functional differences between different devices aimed at home use, leaving more serious solutions for system administrators. Routers may differ:

• the presence and features of Wi-Fi modules.
• the number and speed of ports for connecting network wires.
• installed USB ports (for example, for sharing a printer).
• the presence of a GSM receiver.
• support for various standards of connection to the provider's network.
• stability of work (very much depends on the manufacturer and the specific model).
• other differences (there are really a lot of them, the most obvious ones were listed above).

When stopping a choice on a particular model, first of all, proceed from the availability of the options you need. You should not listen to advice "take the first one", because "they are all the same" - this is fundamentally wrong. If you are interested in a model, you should first read the reviews and reviews about it before buying, since advertising is one thing, but the experience of using it in real work can make its own corrections.

Conclusion

There is no difference between a router and a router as they are synonyms. We hope that more different names will not confuse you, wherever you meet them.