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ROUTERS

What is a router, and what does it do?

Definition courtesy of Webopedia

A device that forwards data packets along networks . A router is connected to at least two networks, commonly two LAN's or WAN's or a LAN and its ISP's network. Routers are located at gateways , the places where two or more networks connect.

Routers use headers and forwarding tables to determine the best path for forwarding the packets, and they use protocols such as ICMP to communicate with each other and configure the best route between any two hosts.

Very little filtering of data is done through routers.

Definition courtesy of Webopedia

Why do I need a router?

Reasons for having a router include sharing 1 IP address between many users enabling them all to go online. Other reasons include security, such as the firewall, and address translation so that outside computers cannot see past your router to inside pc's. This offers security by also blocking incoming traffic, but can cause problems with some software's. The solution to this is to forward traffic on certain ports to inside PC's, enabling incoming connections(remote access).

What do I need to do so traffic can pass through?

You can Simply check here for your brand of router and follow the guides here PORT FORWARD.COM

Alternatively you can follow my very simple guide here.

You will need to call the support for the specific manufacturer of the router. They know the proper places to go right away and input the correct information. This helps because if we try to blindly navigate the routers configuration it can take time and each router is different from the other, and similar things are named differently. Generally speaking you want to find something along the lines of Port Forwarding, IP Pinholes, Virtual Server, or under Firewall settings, or Advanced tab. You then need to specify the address you want to forward data to, and on which port you want the traffic to pass through on. Sample below.

Router Issues

Its advisable to get the latest firmware updates for the routers as the firmware will fix issues within the router. Usually when you get a router off the shelf, it can already be several months old. We take no responsibility for bad flashes with the routers. If you think you need to flash the router, call the tech support for the specific manufacturer of the router, and they will walk you through the proper process.

Links to common router manufacturers: NETGEAR D-LINK LINKSYS SMC