What is a router, and why you might need a better one

A router manages devices on a network to communicate with other devices.

Typically, it provides the connection of the internal devices (computers, phones etc) to the outside world (the internet) as well as the ability for the internal devices to talk to one-another (such as a computer talking to a printer).

A typical router provided by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) tends to be 5 devices all in one:

1)      A true ‘router’ to route data internally and externally

2)      A firewall to prevent or limit access in a given direction, based upon rules provided to it

3)      A modem to communicate with the internet line, converting electrical signals in to computer data

4)      A switch that allows for data to be sent across multiple devices internally without that traffic bouncing in to itself, and allows for devices to be wired-connected to it

5)      A WiFi Access Point that allows WiFi devices to connect to it

A switch

 What needs to be managed or maintained?

Each of these aspects can become either out-of-date, or in need of being updated, or become slow or less functional.

For example, security vulnerabilities to the core Operating System get found on a regular basis (typically multiple each year) and updates need to be written (or incorporated) by the manufacturer, made available to the owner of the device, and updated. Some ISP’s retain a level of control over the router and do this for you, but most do not.

You will most likely find that vulnerabilities are not even dealt with, but (especially after a few initial years) that ironically the thing that is designed to keep your network protected becomes a significant risk of its own.

In terms of features, a number of aspects haven’t changed very much over years; but WiFi continues to develop at a rapid pace both in terms of security and availability (speed, signal strength and distance). Being limited to an older Wifi Access Point will mean that a new phone will have to run at the older protocol when close to the router.

Having dedicated Wifi Access Points can enable you to get the latest Wifi without replacing every part of your network.

Alternatives to the ISP router?

You do not need to keep using the router supplied by your Internet Service Provider.

Alternative ‘all in one’ routers can provide better manageability (such as the ability to have a guest Wifi that is separated from your main wifi), or better guaranteed updates for security, or newer features such as faster wifi or faster internet bandwidth.

Or, you might benefit from having some of the components separated (such as having distinct switches and WiFi Access Points).

A dedicated switch from Ubiquiti

General security advice

As with any security considerations, you should not ‘set and forget’ but instead you should review. A good system is one that you can log in to and see your settings.

Your user account should have its own password (changed from whatever is default), and MFA secured. Check on the manufacturer’s website if the product is still in support, or is deemed ‘End of Life’.

If you would like your equipment to be checked, updated, or replaced (or you are just not sure) please give us a call or an email and we will be happy to give an opinion.