What does a wireless router do?

A wireless router is a networking device that performs several essential functions in a home or business network. Here's an overview of what a wireless router does:

1. Internet Connection Sharing: One of the primary functions of a wireless router is to share an internet connection among multiple devices within a local area network (LAN). It allows multiple devices, such as computers, smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, to connect to the internet simultaneously using a single internet connection from an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

2. Wireless Connectivity: A wireless router enables wireless connectivity by broadcasting Wi-Fi signals, which allow Wi-Fi-enabled devices to connect to the network without the need for physical Ethernet cables. Wi-Fi connectivity provides flexibility and convenience, allowing devices to connect to the network from anywhere within the router's coverage area.

3. LAN Connectivity: In addition to wireless connectivity, a wireless router also provides wired LAN connectivity through Ethernet ports. These ports allow devices that don't have Wi-Fi capabilities or require a more stable and faster connection to connect to the network via Ethernet cables.

4. Network Address Translation (NAT): The wireless router performs Network Address Translation, which allows multiple devices within the local network to share a single public IP address provided by the ISP. NAT translates private IP addresses used within the local network into a single public IP address when communicating with devices on the internet and vice versa.

5. Firewall Protection: Most wireless routers include built-in firewall capabilities to protect the network from unauthorized access and malicious activities. The firewall filters incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules, helping to prevent unauthorized access, malware infections, and data breaches.

6. DHCP Server: The wireless router typically acts as a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server, dynamically assigning IP addresses to devices connected to the network. DHCP simplifies the process of configuring network settings for devices and ensures that each device on the network has a unique IP address.