Understanding Internet Routers: From Basics to Security Measures

Ever wondered what your router does besides blinking mysteriously? Join me, Professor J Rod, as we journey into the fascinating world of internet routers - your unsung heroes of seamless internet connectivity. We'll demystify the role of these trusty devices, from the basics of routing data packets and network address translations to prioritizing network traffic. We'll also explore various router brands, models, and the rising trend of mesh routers. Plus, we'll discuss optimal router positioning for that perfect signal strength.

But hang on, it's not all about performance - security is crucial too! So, gear up as we delve deep into robust security measures you can implement to safeguard your network. We'll discuss everything from firmware updates, encryption protocols, network segmentation, to firewalls and physical security. Learn how to keep an eye on your network through regular checkups and the value of network logs. And yes, for any ambitious students out there, I'll sprinkle in some invaluable advice and strategies for acing your A+ or Network+ certification exams. Exciting, isn't it? So, tune in and arm yourself with the knowledge to traverse the digital world safely.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:17

I and welcome to technology. Tap, I'm Professor J Rod. On this episode we're gonna talk about routers, internet routers and what they do and how they function. Let's do it, hey, and welcome back. Alright, raise your hand if you're shocked that I did two in one week. Come on. Come on, we know we got some shocked people there. Yes, we're doing two episodes in one week. This is the third one in a month, so trying to get there for you guys, right, trying to be better. Alright, on this episode we're gonna do internet routers, alright, and so let's start.

Speaker 1: 1:32

Internet routers are essential devices that play a critical role in connecting devices within a local area network to the wider internet. You know you need a router to go out on the internet. Right, there are. You know you could do a level three switch, which is an exception, but for the most part, a router will get you on the internet. They serve as a gateway between your home or office network and the broader internet, enabling data packets to be effectively routed between devices and external network. Here are some key points about internet routers Basic functions Routers determine the best path for data packets to travel between devices on your local network and external network, such as the internet. They're using routing tables and protocols to make this decision.

Speaker 1: 2:28

Network address translations Most routers perform that, which allows multiple devices on local network to share a single public IP. This is a critical feature and it helps conserve the limited pool of available IP address. Wireless routers many modern routers also incorporate wireless access points, allowing devices to connect to the network via Wi-Fi in addition to wire connections. Security routers often include basic firewall capabilities, helping to protect your network from unauthorized access and potential threats from the internet. Port forwarding this feature allows you to direct incoming traffic on specific ports to a particular device on your local network which is used for hosting services, such as web servers or for you gamers out there, gaming servers. Quality of service Some routers offer QoS settings, which allows you to prioritize certain types of network traffic, ensuring that critical applications like video conferencing receive adequate bandwidth.

Speaker 1: 3:43

Regular firmware updates are essential for security and performance improvements. Many routers allows you to update their firmware to ensure they stay up to date. Brands and models these are numerous. There are numerous router manufacturers with popular brand names like Lynx's, netgear, tp-link, asus and Cisco, among others. The choice and brand model depends on factors like network size, performance requirements and, of course, money on your budget.

Speaker 1: 4:16

Mesh routers in recent years, mesh routers have gained popularity. These systems consist of multiple nodes played throughout a home or office to create a seamless and robust wireless network, ideal for eliminating dead zones. Yeah, and you could do that. There's a lot of mesh routers E-Rules is one that I like Very popular and router placement the placement of your router can significantly impact its performance.

Speaker 1: 4:47

It is important to position it, certainly centrally, away from obstructions and in a location that minimize interference. Now we're talking about your router at home. Placement is also important because you know, if you like, a friend of mine he had. He lives in one of those old style railroad apartments and he has it on one end and it doesn't reach the three walls it has to reach For where he has this office on the other side. So he actually ended up having to get an extender from Ryzen. So playspin is important. So we're gonna look out.

Speaker 1: 5:28

Of the ten Functions that we looked at, we're gonna take a look at a couple of them. One of them is basic functions. The basic functions of an internet router is to connect Different networks and direct data traffic between them. Specifically, a router Performs the following functions, and we're gonna talk about six of them. Packet forwarding routers receive data packets from various devices within a local network and and determine the best path for each packet to reach its intended destination. The destination can be within the same local network or on a different network, such as the internet. Routing decisions routers use routing tables and algorithms to make intelligent Decisions about how to forward data. These decisions are based on the destination IP address of the packet and and routers choose the most efficient route Based on factors like network congestions, link quality and other routing metrics.

Speaker 1: 6:34

Next, we could talk about network address Translations, because I could do a whole podcast just on this. When data packets leave a local network and travel to the internet, the router often performs that. This involves changing the source IP address of the outgoing packets To the routers public IP address, not the gateway, the public IP address. This allows multiple device within the local network to share a single public IP address, thereby conserving the limited pool of available IP address in IPv4. I think I did a podcast on this, but basically means that All your devices in your home or in your office when they go on the internet, they all go through the same public IP address. The internet sees them as the same IP address public IP address, not the ones that they have on their devices. That's private IP. They'll see it on the public. Next is packet filtering and firewall. Routers often include basic firewall capabilities to protect the local network from authorized access and Potential threats from the internet. They can filter incoming and outgoing packets Based on predetermined rules to allow or block certain types of traffic.

Speaker 1: 8:00

Interconnecting networks routers are used to interconnect different networks, enabling devices on one network to communicate with device on another. This is particularly crucial for assessing the internet, as the router acts as the gateway between the local network and the global internet. Network management routers are often provided Often provide management interface that allowed users to configure settings such as port 40, quality of service, qos settings and firmware updates. These features help optimize the network for various applications and ensure security and performance. So ensure an internet internet router one of the basic functions. It serves as a central point of communication between devices within a local network and external networks such as the internet, and it makes Intelligent routing decisions, handles, address translations, perform basic security and Facilitates a efficient data flow between networks.

Speaker 1: 9:12

Now let's talk a little bit about internet router security, which is a critical aspect of maintaining a safe and reliable network. Since routers are the gateway between your local network and the broader internet, there are prime targets for potential security threats. Properly securing your router is essential to protect your network and devices connected to it. Here are some important considerations for internet routers. One change to default credentials. Most routers come with default user name and passwords for administrators or administration. It is essential to change these credentials to unique, strong passwords. Default credentials are widely known. You can Google them and make your router vulnerable to unauthorized access. When those links and neck-ears routers first came out, people didn't change the default username and password. They kept them admin-admin. So then they kind of learned later on. Oh, maybe I should change it.

Speaker 1: 10:27

Firmware updates regularly update your router's firmware. Manufacturers release updates to fix security vulnerabilities and improve performance. Check for updates on the manufacturer's website or through the router's admin interface. Strong encryption use strong encryption protocols for Wi-Fi, such as WPH3. Avoid using outdated and weak encryption methods like WEP, which can be easily cracked.

Speaker 1: 11:01

Network segmentation consider setting up a guest network for visitors. This network should be isolated from your main network to prevent potential threats from spreading. Firewall we talked about that and sure that your router is built-in firewalls enabled? Configure it to block incoming connections that you don't explicitly allow, like port forwarding. Disable remote management if possible. Disable remote admin on the router. This prevents attackers from accessing the router settings from outside the network.

Speaker 1: 11:35

Physical security keep the router in a physically secure location. Prevent physical access by unauthorized individuals, as they can reset or tamper with the device. What good is having all these protections if you're going to leave your router out there? That doesn't make any sense. Regular checkups periodically review the connected devices on your network. Disconnect any unknown or suspicious activity. Network logs review your router's log for any unusual or suspicious activity. This can help you detect potential security breaches. And last, security features. Some routers offer additional security features, such as intrusion detection and intrusion prevention. Explore these options if available. Remember, router security is an ongoing process, regularly reassessing and update your security measures to stay ahead of emerging threats. Additionally, stay informed about the latest security practice and vulnerabilities related to your specific router model.

Speaker 1: 12:52

Before we continue, I just want to emphasize that if you are a school or training session or a place where you have students whether it's high school, college or like a training school I'm more than happy to do a Zoom call with anyone and pop in, give encouragement to the students. Tell a little bit about comtea. What's the exam about? How to get over the hump, alleviate some of the fears that the students may have. Share with them clues on how to defeat the exam. I'm more than available to do that. Just send me an email at professorjroddcom. That's professorjroddcom, alright.

Speaker 1: 13:52

Internet router. Wireless routers or internet routers for wireless Wireless routers are a specific type of internet routers that includes built-in wireless access points to provide Wi-Fi connectivity in addition to the traditional routing functions. These routers have become increasingly popular due to the proliferation of wireless devices and the convenience of Wi-Fi. Here are some key features about wireless routers wireless connectivity wireless routers allow devices such as smartphones, laptop tablets and smart home devices to connect to the internet and local network wirelessly through Wi-Fi. This eliminates the need for physical internet cables for these devices. Duban and Triban many modern wireless routers offer DUBAN or Triban support, providing 2.4 and 5 gigahertz frequency band. This can improve performance and reduce interference in crowded Wi-Fi environments. Wi-fi standards wireless routers adhere to various Wi-Fi standards, for example 802.11c, 802.11x, that dictate data transfer rates and signal quality. Ensure your router supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for the best performance.

Speaker 1: 15:28

Wireless security strong wireless security is critical to protect your network from unauthorized access. Use strong encryption like WPA3, change your default passwords and consider features like guest network isolation yeah, you have somebody. You can even do this at home, right? If you have a wireless network like a mesh, you can actually have it for only guests, right? You have your regular wireless and then you have your mesh wireless and then use that just for guests. Our guest network many wireless routers offer the option to set up a guest network. This network isolates your primary network and provides a secure way to grant internet access to visitors, giving them access to your internal services. Quality of service quality of service allows you to prioritize specific types of traffic on your network, ensuring that critical applications like video conferencing, online gaming, received the necessary bandwidth for optimal performance. Parental controls some wireless routers offer parental control features allows you to restrict access to certain websites, which is important, or set time limits for internet usage for specific devices, which is great. Right? You don't want your kid playing PlayStation at three in the morning, right? So you could limit that on what time, how often they should be on it.

Speaker 1: 17:07

Mu MIMO multi-user multiple input, multiple output technology allows the router to communicate with multiple devices simultaneously, improving overall network efficiency and performance. Beamforming is a technology which focuses on Wi-Fi signal directly towards connected devices, improving coverage and signal strength. Remember, wi-fi has issues going through walls and floors. We talked about a router placement right. It's essential for optimal Wi-Fi coverage. Right Position the router in a central location, away from obstructions, and consider using Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems for larger area. Not a big fan of extenders, but I'm a big fan of mesh.

Speaker 1: 18:02

Again, regularly update your router's firmware right to make sure that you're getting the latest security patches and improvements. Security secure your router's admin interface with strong password and disabling the remote admin to prevent unauthorized access. Right Get network to keep visitors off your main and monitoring and management apps. Some routers come with mobile apps or web interfaces that allow you to monitor and manage your network remotely. Choosing the right wireless router depends on factors like the size of your home or office, the number of devices you have, the number of devices you have and your specific performance and security requirements. Be sure to research and select the router that best suits your needs. I mean, these things have changed over the years, so you know. Make sure that if you can pick the best one, all right. Last topic that we're going to talk about is firmware updates on your device, on your routers.

Speaker 1: 19:14

Firmware updates for internet routers are essential for various reasons, including security enhancements, bug fix and performance improvements. Keeping your routers firmware up to date is crucial to ensure your network remains secure and functions optimally. Here are some important considerations regarding firmware updates for routers. One security patches. Router manufactures regularly release firm updates to address security vulnerabilities and potential exploits. These updates help protect your network from cyber threats and attack. Failing to update your routers firmware can leave your network exposed to known security risk.

Speaker 1: 19:58

Next, bug fixes. Firmware updates also include bug fixes that can resolve issues related to network stability, connectivity problems and other performance issues. If you encounter problems with your router, updating the firmware may resolve this, and that's usually the first thing with almost any device that you may have, specifically your phone, right? If you have an issue with your phone, the first thing that they're going to check if you are up to date and I'm not a network admin, you know I don't work with routers, but I'm pretty sure it's the same thing Right, that the first thing they're going to ask is what version of firmware are you? On? Performance improvement, manufacturers often receives firmware updates to improve the performance of your router. These improvements can include better Wi-Fi speed, range and reliability.

Speaker 1: 21:03

New features Firmware updates may introduce new features or enhancements to your router's capabilities. This could include improved parental control options, quality of service settings or compatibility with new devices and technologies, which is why another reason why you should always update and again, a lot of these things are, you know, not something that you need to think about. It's like automatic right, and this is something that you should be doing, not only with your routers, but with everything else. Compatibility as new devices and networking standards emerge firmware updates can ensure that your router remains compatible with the latest hardware and software. Here's how to update your router's firmware.

Speaker 1: 22:00

Check for updates. Log into your router's web interface using a web browser and enter the router's IP address Right. It all depends on your router, but most of us know what it is right, which is 192.168.11. Enter your router's username and password when prompted. Then look for a section type label like firmware updates or software updates or something similar. Then you download. If the update is available, you typically see an option to download the new firmware for the manufacturer's website, downloaded to your computer. Then you update. In your router's web interface there should be an option to upload and install. To download the downloaded firmware file. Follow the on-screen instructions Carefully and be patient during this process. Now you can take several minutes, so no rush. Reboot right after the update is complete. Your router will likely reboot once it's back online. Log in again to verify that the update was successful.

Speaker 1: 23:07

Backup settings before updating. It's a good practice to back up your router settings. It's not how many people really do that. Let's be honest. This way you can easily restore your previous configuration. If something goes wrong during the updates, then automatic updates. Some new routers are for the option for automatic firmware updates. If this feature is available, consider enabling it to ensure that your router remains up to date.

Speaker 1: 23:35

Not bad right. Always check your router's manufacturer's website or user's manual for specific instructions on updating the firmware, as the process can vary slightly depending on your router model and brand. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the firmware you downloaded is from a trusted source, typically the manufacturer's official website, to avoid downloading potential hardware Harmful files. I know Cali Linux on their website. They still have this thing where you can File and you can, you know, look at your hash after you downloaded. See if it match. All right. That's it for today on this podcast on routers.

Speaker 1: 24:29

Again, if you are a school Right, with high school, college, even junior high school, you know teaching, teaching it in any kind of setting, technical school and you want me to come and talk about, come here about my podcast and and you know how to the students can beat the exam, always email me, professor Jay rod, that's J R O D Hi, gmailcom. Also, if you want to do, if you studying for any of these exams usually the com tier ones are the most more popular ones, the a plus and 1101 and 1102 and you want to do something like on a Sunday, either zoom meeting or what tap, talk live, and you know we can go over strategies, we can go over what are you, what issues you're having, if you're worried about taking the exams, we can. I think we can go do a practice test. If you want anything you want, it's up for grabs Again, but you got to email me, professor J rod, j R O D I Gmailcom and see if you want to be interested. I don't want to do it by myself, you know, or one or two people. I kind of want to do it At least five or six people. That way, you know we get a good group in there. Let me know. All right, until the next one, we'll see you then.

Speaker 1: 26:26

This has been a presentation of little charge. Our productions are by Sarah music, by joking. If you want to reach me, you can add professor J rod, gmailcom. That's professor J R O D I Gmailcom. I'm also on Instagram at professor J rod.