Wireless routers explained

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In this guide

What is a wireless router?

A router sends and receives data between the cable supplying the internet and the devices connecting to the internet. Once upon a time all routers were wired, meaning that a cable would connect from your device (usually your computer) to the router itself.

These days wired routers have become somewhat obsolete, and are only used in instances where people require a specialist connection to the internet (usually via an ethernet cable).

Wireless routers are now commonplace, using radio signals to transfer data between your devices and the internet.

Almost all wireless routers will also allow you to connect to the internet via cable too. So having a wireless router allows you to have the best of both worlds. This is especially handy if you want a reliable broadband connection for your computer, smart TV or games console.

When signing up for a new broadband connection you should have been send a new wireless router from your ISP, but sometimes these are not up to scratch. We have helpfully compiled a list of the providers with the best routers, so before you get worried and buy a new router make sure you see where your router ranks.

How does Wi-Fi work?

You may think that Wi-Fi is an acronym or some kind of shortened form of a technical name, but this isn’t the case. Wi-Fi is simply the nickname for a particular kind of wireless technology (the ‘IEEE 802.11b Direct Sequence specification’ to be exact).

Don’t be intimidated though, you don’t need to know the ins and outs of the technology to make use of it.

All you need to know is that when you plug your wireless router into an internet connection, the router will convert the data into a radio signal which can be picked up by all Wi-Fi compatible devices (such as your computer, phone, or tablet).

How can I connect to Wi-Fi?

Connecting to Wi-Fi is fairly straightforward. On your chosen device, click on the network you wish to join (usually written on your wireless router), and then type in the password (also usually written on your router - but can obviously be changed).

The default password tends to be a long string of random numbers and letters, so keep an eye out for it.

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Which wireless router should I get?

You won’t really be given a choice as to which model of router you are given - this is usually up to your broadband provider. Having said that, providers do usually supply you with better hardware if you opt for one of their more expensive broadband deals. 

If for some reason you aren’t happy with the router supplied by your provider, you can purchase your own one too. They don't come cheap however, with high-end routers costing several hundred pounds a pop. If you want to upgrade your router but you're not sure what to look for, check out our list of the best wireless routers in 2021. 

If you are an avid gamer, you should check out our list of the best gaming routers in 2021.

And last but not least, if you are looking into a 5G connection, you should look at our page on how to choose the best 5g router.

What else can my wireless router do?

It may not be immediately apparent, but you can use your wireless router to do some useful things other than just accessing the internet with your phone or computer. Data services can now be used to make phone calls via the internet (even internationally), all completely free. On top of this, there are also many digital TV products that can be accessed via the internet too (but these usually come with a monthly fee).