Why Do I Need a Router When I Already Have an Internet Connection?

Depending on which NETGEAR router you choose, there are a number of advantages:

1. Any router will let you share several computers on a single Internet connection from your ISP. You only have to pay for one IP address, not one for each computer.

But there are other advantages, no matter whether you're using one computer, or several

2. All computers connected to the Internet are subject to various kinds of attack. You need security features to be safe. NETGEAR routers have several kinds of security. It's possible to run security software on each of your home computers, but this slows them down, and is hard to keep track of. A router is a much better solution.
3. If you choose a wireless router, you can do away with cables in your home. This allows you, for example, to walk around the house or into the yard with your laptop.

NETGEAR makes both home and business routers. Business routers are somewhat more expensive, but they have more features. See this page to for a comparison of Home Routers. This page shows your higher end alternatives: Business Routers.

Doc: N100935.asp Apr. 8, 2004