Choice of Type

The primary purpose of routing is to share one Internet connection between multiple devices (computer/laptop/tablet)

Categories of Internet Connection

Virtually no commercial router is capable of handling all four common types of Internet connection:

• Broadband via Cable or NBN
  • technically HFC, FTTN, FTTH/P (NBN)
  • TransACT's "cable"/Phase 1/VDSL(n)/NBN is in this category
• Broadband via ADSL
  • also called "ULL" by some suppliers
• "Mobile" Broadband via USB modem (2G/3G/4G)
• Dial-up via phone line

If an ISP offers a "router" for their service then it is probably of the applicable type. Otherwise a user would need to choose carefully from the following types of "routers"

Characteristics of Router Types

ADSL Modem/Routers

• always applicable to ADSL connections
• some provide for alternate connection via USB modem as well
  • check features carefully some USB slots support only USB printer
• few, if any, can be used with Cable/NBN
• need to distinguish from ADSL modem (only) devices
  • were popular ~ 10 years ago
  • supported only one computer, in absence of additional router
• WiFi LAN included in many models

Broadband Routers

• might be described simply as "Router"
  • primarily for use with HFC, FTTN, NBN
• many have USB port
  • need to check whether supports USB moblie broadband modem
  • might support only USB printer
• technically could be used in conjunction with ADSL modem or ADSL modem/router
  • new, combined ADSL modem/router device generally a better solution
  • suitable choice only when ADSL device already owned in order to:
    • extend ADSL modem service to multiple computers
    • enhance security of older ADSL devices
• WiFi LAN included in many models

Mobile Broadband Routers

• usually physically small devices intended for moblie use with laptop/netbook/tablet
  • require mobile phone plan of some type
  • those having slot for SIM card should have inbuilt 2/3/4G wireless broadband modem
  • others require separate, plug-in USB wireless broadband modem
    • essential to check router manufacturer's web-site for compatible modem models
• might not be a good choice for use only at fixed location (home/office)
• almost invariably include WiFi LAN capabliity
• may include "wired" LAN via Ethernet or USB connection
• some powered by internal, rechargable battery
  • these models tend to have limited transmission range
  • usable only in medium/strong signal areas for moble phone reception
  • WiFi LAN may have limited range and/or ability to penetrate walls etc
• need to stand vertically for best signal strength

Dial-up Routers

• no longer commercially available
• options/alternatives include
  • change to another type of ISP service
  • DIY router see: DIY

USB Wireless Broadband Modem

• not a router
• requires one of the above separate routers, if routing required

Selection

A wide range of devices are commercially available in each of the above categories. Suggested guidelines:

• an ISP is likely to be better able to provide techical support for a device they sell
• if relying on friends/relatives/acquaintances for technical assistance then choose a model with which they are familiar
• if also relying on the router as primary firewall for a LAN, compare firewalling features
  • see Commercial

Configuration

• Routers are generally configured via a Web Browser
  • other, more technical routers are generally unsuited to home users
• Reputable manufacturers have their User Guides available for download from their web-site
  • peruse manual prior to purchasing device
• user interface via web browser varies widely
  • impractical to provide generic configuration guidelines
  • good quality manuals cover the physical connections and setup procedures well