Wireless Network Devices

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What is wireless?

Wireless refers to any electronic device which communicates with other devices wirelessly - ie. meaning there is no physical connection between the devices. Wireless means technologies which rely on a non-physical signal to send data rather than using a physical medium (ie. a wire). In wireless transmission electromagnetic, radio and microwave signals are passed through the air. Wireless technologies can be applied to devices which comprise 'the internet of things' (ie. a series of 'smart-connected devices') within an environment.

When the word 'wireless' is mentioned, people most often mean wireless computer networking as in computers, laptops, tablets and smartphones which use Wi-Fi or cellular, the backbone of personal communications.

Is a wireless network important?

Undoubtedly one of the best things to have happened in the last few decades is the internet - and with it eventually came wireless technology for the home and professional environment. The impact on the way this has changed our relationships with the world is huge. It is now possible to carry a small device in your pocket (a smartphone) and be in constant communication with the world, as well as being able to access the internet.

But wireless has also completely changed the way we live, at home and at work, and it's almost impossible to conceive of a home or work life without wireless. So what are the important things to know?

Router

The router is, basically a box. But it's a very important box. It's the hub of your wireless network as it shares the internet between computers, tablets, game consoles and every other device which requires Wi-Fi, and it does so without the need for connecting cables. Routers guide and direct network data, using 'packets' which contain various pieces of data (files, communications and web interactions). The data packets have several sections, one of which carries identifying information (sender, data type, size, and the destination IP address. The router reads the identifying information layer, prioritises the data, and chooses the best route to use for each transmission.

Routers for business

Routers connect employees to networks, both local and the Internet, and therefore almost every essential business activity. Without routers, staff in a workplace wouldn't be able to use the Internet or be able to collaborate and communicate. Routers can also provide a business with some digital security. Embedded firewall and content filtering software offer additional protection to ensure that your business is protected from unwanted content or malicious websites. A router isn't just for data transmission or Internet connections, though. With many routers it is possible to connect hard drives and use them as file-sharing servers. It's also possible to connect printers to your wireless network so that anyone in your business and on the network can access a particular printer at any time.

Routers at Ebuyer

We stock different types of routers, so there are plenty to choose from including cable, fibre and ADSL. Many have USB sharing ports to allow multiple computers to share devices such as printers.

Range and performance of routers

When choosing a router you should be aware that the performance does differ between models, and that the connection speed and range will vary. If you experience problems with the range of your router you can add wireless range extenders to increase the coverage of your network.

Portable 3G

Wireless technology is always evolving and these days you can even take a router with you on your travels. Using a portable router it is possible that you can set up a temporary network anywhere that you can find a 4G or 5G signal. You can also share the connection you establish with other users and their devices.

Other wireless devices

Obviously, as we have talked about above, the router should be considered the main hub of your wireless network - whether that's in business or domestically. But the wireless network is meaningless with other devices connected to it which can benefit from the wireless technology.

No longer is there the need to connect your printer, for instance, directly to your PC. A wireless printer can be added to your network and accessed by anyone who is also connected to the network. A great way to share! There are other devices which can connect, too - and these are covered in the smart technologies section where you can learn more about making your home more efficient.

Leading Brands

To complete your wireless network we also stock a variety of antennas, adapters and access controllers. These are all at affordable prices from the best manufacturers including D-Link, TP-Link, HP and Netgear.

Wireless at Ebuyer

Order your wireless network solutions today for fast delivery within the UK.