Switches, routers, and wireless access points

There are two kinds of internet routers available: wired and wireless.

When you sign up for a new broadband deal, you'll receive a wireless model rather than a wired one from your internet service provider (ISP).

That's because wired ones have become outdated and tend to only be used by those who want to get online via an Ethernet cable.

Wireless routers allow you to do that, too, and most come with at least four Ethernet ports for connecting PCs, TVs and other in-home gadgets to the internet — but they also let you connect to a Wi-Fi network with other devices.

What is a wireless router?

A wireless router is an electronic device that works as a router — meaning it sends data from the internet cable to a device — and as a wireless access point so this data can be shared through radio signals instead of another cable.

How does a Wi-Fi router work?

Plug your phone or cable line into your router and data will be sent through the connection to the router.

The Wi-Fi router then takes this data and converts it into radio signals, which are then picked up by devices with Wi–Fi capability such as laptops, tablets, smartphones and games consoles.

How do devices connect to a Wi-Fi router?

To connect to your router, you'll be prompted to enter a password on the device you're using. This is usually supplied by your ISP and can be found on the bottom of the router.

This tends to be a series of numbers and letters, designed to offer heightened security and protect your network from being used by others illegally.

What is a wireless router?

As well as being able to provide wireless access to the web and other services on smartphones, tablets and PCs, you can use your router to make calls over the internet, saving on expensive phone bills. You can also use it to access digital TV, using products such as Apple TV, Amazon's Firestick, Google's Chromecast or a smart TV.

Wireless networking