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Technology Bytes
by Francine Brokaw
Routers from Belkin
Many people think routers are just for sharing internet connections. While this is definitely one use for routers, there are other reasons routers are important in today’s computing world.
Routers provide an additional firewall, protecting computers from prying eyes. Firewalls serve as a barrier between a computer and the outside world. As with virus protection, every computer should have at least one firewall. A software firewall is important, but when you install a router you get additional security. The NAT (Network Address Translation) firewalls that come with Belkin routers act as a guard dog and hide your IP address from the outside world. The routers restrict access to your computers, keeping out hackers. When you plug your router into your modem, the router goes to work collecting the information from the Internet and forwarding it to your computer, while keeping out hackers and not disrupting your computing at all. You won’t even know it’s there.
The Belkin 4-Port Cable/DSL Gateway Router (a.k.a. The Router) lets you share your cable or DSL modem with up to four computers. This eliminates the need for additional modems. The computers can all access the internet at the same time. The Router also lets users share peripherals and files. Installation is easy with the installation Wizard. Configuring the settings, should you decide you want to alter the default settings once you get comfortable with your router, can all be done online, however there shouldn’t be anything to alter for most users. Port Forwarding is one of the options available for advanced computer users though. The Router comes with its own power supply, a manual, networking cable, software and manual. It also comes with a vertical base which allows the unit to stand up and use a smaller footprint on your desk or wherever you place it. The unit takes only a few minutes to set up. It’s quick and easy and doesn’t require any special computing knowledge.
With laptops being a large portion of the computing market, it doesn’t make much sense to have the freedom of a laptop with the constraints of a wired router. Belkin makes several wireless routers. They combine all the benefits of the wired router without being tethered. If you don’t already have a wireless network card installed, don’t worry. You can get one from Belkin. The high speed of wireless computing has come a long way. Imagine being able to take your computer to your bedroom, dining room, back yard, front porch or anywhere in your house and still stay connected to the internet without any wires. Now you can take your laptop into the kitchen, download a recipe, and create a fabulous meal without having to print out anything. Or, imagine finding something fabulous while you’re surfing the web that you want to share with your family. There’s no need to call them in to see it. Simply take your computer to them without losing your internet connection.
Belkin routers are easy to install, provide security and convenience, and are reliable. Once you install your router, sit back and enjoy the benefits of computing, not to mention the ease of using the Internet. With a router there’s no need to wait to access the web. You’re basically “always on.” As long as your modem is connected and working properly, you should have no problems with Internet access. Boot up your computer, click your browse shortcut and you’re online. No more waiting to connect. It’s a no-brainer. And with the Belkin routers, you know you’re getting quality products.
© 2004 Francine Brokaw
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