An ADSL wireless modem router creates a LAN for sharing files, resources, and an ADSL Internet connection. It incorporates a router, modem, and wireless components. Machines on the LAN need compatible wireless network cards. Multiple standards are supported by some routers, while adapters can be purchased for others. The router’s configuration can be accessed through a browser. The range of the router depends on various factors. Prices vary widely, but a quality model can be purchased for under $100 USD.
An ADSL wireless modem router creates a wireless local area network (LAN), allowing computers to share files with each other, resources such as a central printer, and an ADSL Internet connection. ADSL, or Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, (more commonly called DSL), is a high-speed Internet service that uses existing copper telephone lines. DSL traffic uses a different frequency band than telecommunications voice traffic, allowing simultaneous use of telephone and DSL.
The wireless ADSL modem router incorporates multiple components. The router directs traffic on the LAN, making sure that communication on the local network gets to where the sender intended to go. The modem takes care of interfacing with the signal provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP), establishing a connection with the Internet. Wireless components include a transmitter and receiver to broadcast all communications over the LAN over radio waves and listen for responses.
In order for the machines on the LAN to hear the broadcast from the router, each of them must be equipped with a wireless network card that speaks the same language as the wireless ADSL modem router. Wireless communication standards are constantly evolving and fall under the 802.11 specification. A letter follows this number, indicating the protocol, such as 802.11n.
Wireless network cards are installed in almost every computer by the manufacturer, but older machines may have cards that support older standards. Even a new computer can support an older standard when a new standard is still young enough. The problem arises when a new router only supports the latest standard, while the machines to be used on the LAN have various types of wireless network cards.
One solution is to get a wireless ADSL modem router that supports multiple wireless standards; be it 802.11g and 802.11n, for example. By supporting the latest standard as well as the older one, all machines are likely covered and no additional equipment will be needed. The workaround (if your router only supports one standard) is to purchase wireless network adapters for your computers that support the same standard as your router. In the case of a desktop, an internal wireless network card will work if you don’t mind opening up the computer and installing it. Otherwise, a wireless network adapter can use the USB port on a desktop or laptop, and laptops can also use wireless network adapters made for the ExpressCard® slot.
You can access the configuration of your wireless ADSL modem router using a browser (you do not need to be connected to the Internet). Here you can name your LAN, enable a password and encryption to protect the network from freeloaders and eavesdropping, and set many other parameters that may be needed to connect to your ISP. The router will also feature a built-in firewall to prevent unsolicited Internet traffic from flowing upstream into the LAN, and advanced users can set permissions for ports needed for games and other applications.
An ADSL wireless modem router can transmit up to 300 feet (91m) or more, depending on many factors including the wireless protocol used, the hardware used, and the location of the router. Prices vary widely based on features, but a quality model can be had for under $100 US Dollars (USD). If you plan to get ADSL2 service, an enhanced version of ADSL, make sure your router supports ADSL2.
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