Geeks, I need advice: talk to me about routers.

[supernova]

I have the opportunity to work from home a couple of times a week. But apparently I need a router. I can't just hook up my work laptop to my existing IP address. My DSL provider doesn't release the addresses as a security precaution.

So, what kind of router do I need? And how much does it cost, generally?

I would appreciate any info.

[Orsino]

1. Under $100

Try the Linksys DSL routers for home networking, available at any computer store. One of the large chains might offer in-home installation, wherein they configure the damned thing (can be tricky) for you.

[Rabrrrrrr]

2. Just grab yer basic linksys router, $60 or so

You shouldn't be running home DSL without a router anyway - the router will give you a near bulletproof firewall, AND the router logs in to the modem, so that your computer doesn't have to, so you can turn your conmputer on and off and add computers and do whatever you want, and never have to bother with logging in from the computer.

[supernova]

3. Thanks, y'all!

I didn't realize routers were so cheap now. $60 bucks isn't bad. Verizon recommends Linksys anyway. :-)

[hunter]

4. Get a wireless router and a wireless card for your laptop.

Then you can use the laptop anywhere in your house or yard. I love to get out of my home office and work at the kitchen table or in the garage sometimes.

But make very sure your wireless network is set up securely.

[crispini]

5. Yes, definitely go wireless.

Wireless is DA BOM! It's totally fun to just hang out on your computer where-ever you want.

If you are going to go wireless you might want to get the card first and try it out at Starbucks or where-ever .... and see what kind of WiFi is available in your area. We have citywide wireless available in some parts of the city.

[Fleshdancer]

6. wireless makes the world a more beautiful place.

:) I love spending Saturday mornings on the back porch with my laptop and coffee. Just out of curiosity, why do you take your laptop into the garage?

[hunter]

9. My tools are there...

That's where I build machines.

[lpbk2713]

7. If you really want to know your IP address go here .....

Link: http://showip.net/


Knowing it probably won't do you a lot of good though. You probably have a dynamic IP addy with your DSL.

You were probably told to get a router because it adds another (hardware) firewall between you and the net. This is a good thing really.

[Taverner]

8. Get a Netgear Router/Firewall and kill 2 birds with one stone

Its a router - its a firewall!

It's both!

And it's only $200!!!!!

[Az]

10. Routers act as a NAT firewall already

No need to go to the expense of getting a full fledged firewall.