Firewalls & Broadband Routers Reviews

Buying guide for Firewalls and Broadband Routers

Nowadays, end consumers are really catching on to the benefits that technology can bring them, both at home and in the workplace. From simple beginnings with a computer and internet access, you may wish to consider firewalls and broadband routers as the next step - to protect your new high-tech assets and get you online in new, mobile ways.

Firewalls are used to keep computers protected against illegal or unauthorised access by computer hackers, unwanted websites and viral or malicious software. Without them, you risk having your PC and software attacked by malicious elements on the web whenever you connect online.

With the exception of the Windows XP integrated version, almost all firewalls are able to also block any threats already present on your PC, preventing them from communicating with a hacker, or unwanted third party. This stops any hackers from being able to get access to your personal stored data on the system. For these reasons, firewalls for both hard and software are key for maintaining secure computers. You can get free software firewalls quite easily and hardware firewalls can be bought for around £30 - for example, a popular choice is the Linsksy BEFSR41 or the D-Link DI-704p. When it comes to installing however, it`s worth consulting an expert, as hardware firewalls in particular can be tricky to install and configure.

When researching your options you may come across something called either the 802.11a, 802.11b or 802.11g Wireless Router Standard. These are technical specifications in the `802.11 family`, which are used for wireless LAN`s (Local Area Networks). For example, 802.11a is used to operate at certain radio frequencies, which for technical reasons, means that it`s well used in office environments - as it has high data speeds and has lots of free channels to operate over. On the other hand, the 802.11b is common with certain home appliances and equipment used in medical settings. Again, you`re well worth discussing your needs with an expert, or at least doing some thorough research before purchase, just so you get the right kit for your needs.

Broadband routers go one step further from the basic firewall and combine the DSL/Cable modem and hub/switch functions, with a firewall. The broadband router are designed to combine all the necessary features for simple home networking, together in a single and simple to use package. There are different things to consider when looking for a broadband router (also known as a residential gateway), such as its reliability, the cost and your budget, its operating speed, the features it offers - and other reviews or ratings from other users. Several well known and popular brands include Linksys, D-link, Netgear, Belkin and Zyxel.

It`s worth doing your research before investing in new computer software or hardware, so ask an expert or find out more online. For example, one essential step when considering an broadband technology is to look at a Broadband speed check for your area. Numerous factors determine overall speed, including simply distance from your local exchange if connecting via the public sector telephone network rather than cable.

Introduction to Firewalls & Broadband Routers

Nowadays, end consumers are really catching on to the benefits that technology can bring them, both at home and in the workplace. From simple beginnings with a computer and internet access, you may wish to consider firewalls and broadband routers as the n... Read more