Things to Consider Before Going for an ADSL Modem Router Setup on Your PC

In our last blog, we had discussed troubleshooting of issues related to ADSL modem router setup. It is very instrumental to know about how you can setup the ADSL modem safely and smoothly to connect to the Internet. But before you go for setting up your modem or router, you have to take into consideration many things that may interrupt the smooth enjoyment of the connectivity. Consulting a hardware engineer in this regard may also be helpful. But if you carry a good knowledge of computer hardware then you can try doing it yourself as well. 

 

In this blog post, you will get information about things that you should consider while going for an ADSL modem setup. Since it is a daunting task, you must analyze your preferences first and then properly understand the fundamental features of a wireless router. Wireless router is one of the most important computer peripherals for this reason so you should be quite researched and informed about the varieties and types available for this computer hardware. 

Understand the difference between a normal router and an ADSL router

Before you begin the process, you must understand the difference between a normal router and ADSL router. An ADSL router refers to one of the peripherals which combines an ADSL modem as well a router. On the other hand, a router is mainly a networking device that you use to connect two computer networks. For your home networking of PCs, routers are used to connect your home PC network to the network of the Internet service provider. So now you probably understand the distinguishing features of an ADSL router and a simple router. 

Things to consider

1. Choose a Wireless Router

While setting up modem for your PC, you should preferably go for a wireless router. It facilitates a wire-free networking or connection between router, PC, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles. Usually, all mobile devices, as well as laptops, come with inbuilt adapters but you have to add wireless network cards separately for desktop computers. You have no other option than a wireless router if you want to use a laptop, smartphone or tablet in your home network. 

2. Compare Speed

Speed is another aspect that you should look at before setting up a networking device. Many of the users think that if their ISP gives them maximum 150 Mbps then why they should go for a router that gives 300 Mbps speed. These 150 and 300 Mbps are the speed offered by wireless router brands. But don’t confuse yourself as this speed has no role in determining your Internet speed. The figure denoting speed in a router is merely the speed of data transfer across your internal network. So this simply means the data transfer speed between your PC and router or PC to PC flowing through the router. If you are using multiple PCs or devices in your wireless network, then you are recommended to use only those routers that feature higher bandwidth.

3. Choose the Latest Technology

Next thing to consider, before choosing networking computer peripherals, is the technology. If you ask a computer hardware regarding this then he would also advise you to go with the latest technology to ensure smooth and fast network connectivity. There are many technical terms that you come across regarding wireless routers. You find most of them difficult to interpret and understand. Some of the standard set of setting up a wireless network is the 2.4, 3.5 and 5Giga Hz frequency bands. These standards are maintained and controlled by IEEE and all Wi-Fi products need to comply with these standards. The traditional networking standard known as 802.11 for wireless connectivity has been improved and modified with the entry of newer versions such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n. 

The latest Wi-Fi standard is the 802.11ac, which is currently under development. You will get this standard with a few router brands. You can go to this standard if you are looking for the next generation router, but that would be a waste of money as you won’t be able to use it immediately.

4. Should You Go for a Dual Band Router?

 

You must acknowledge a technology related fact that a dual band router works across two bands – 2.4 GHz and 5GHz. However, a single band N type router works only in 2.4 band. One thing that you must take into your notice here is that majority of commercial WiFi enabled devices such as smartphones, tablets etc work on 2.4 GHz band only so in this case going for a dual band computer hardware for networking will be a waste of money. 

But if you have a Wifi adapter for your laptop that can support 5GHz band, then it will be an added benefit because 5GHz frequency band is more stable and secure. In addition, if your current 2.5 GHz frequency wireless network is facing persistent disturbances because of uneven frequencies then you may consider switching to a dual band router that is compatible with a wireless adapter.

5. Consider Options for Connectivity and Configuration

The last but not the least thing to consider before ADSL modem router setup is the options for connectivity and configuration. Traditionally, majority of the WiFi routers come with 4 Ethernet ports to facilitate easy physical connectivity between the devices that are devoid of WiFi adapters or a WiFi port.

To add to your convenience, some routers come with an additional USB port as well. Those who are tech savvy or a friend hardware engineer will hardly face any challenge in choosing the configuration, but normal users will find it difficult to choose the right router configuration. Considering the difficulties faced by normal users in choosing the right configuration, majority of the router brands provide configuration wizard applications to make the configuration simple and convenient even for the normal users.

Conclusion

You must consider the five things mentioned above before setting up ADSL modem router for your PC. You should also explore information regarding some other things like router with 3G dongle support, IPV6 support, warranty and after-sales support, and user’s reviews to choose the right router for your network.