How does a Wi-Fi router work?

@aglae.kirlin 

A Wi-Fi router is a device that allows multiple devices to connect to the internet wirelessly using the Wi-Fi technology. Here is a simplified explanation of how a Wi-Fi router works:

1. Modem connection: A Wi-Fi router is connected to a modem, which receives the internet signal from your internet service provider (ISP) through a wired connection such as an Ethernet cable or a phone line.
2. Wireless signal generation: Once the router is connected to the modem, it generates a wireless signal using a specific frequency band (2.4 GHz or 5 GHz). This signal allows devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart home devices to connect to the router without any physical wired connection.
3. SSID and password: The router broadcasts its Service Set Identifier (SSID), which is the name of the Wi-Fi network you see when searching for available networks on your device. It is usually preconfigured by the router manufacturer, but you can change it. The router also has a password (Wireless Key or Passphrase) to secure the network and prevent unauthorized access.
4. Signal transmission: When a device wants to connect to the router, it sends a request and the router negotiates the connection. The router then assigns a unique Internet Protocol (IP) address to each connected device, allowing them to communicate with each other and access the internet.
5. Data Routing: The router acts as a traffic cop for the data exchanged between devices connected to it. It receives data packets from different devices, examines the source and destination addresses in each packet, and uses that information to route the data packets to their intended destinations. It also manages network address translation (NAT) to allow multiple devices to share a single IP address.
6. Bandwidth allocation: Wi-Fi routers use techniques like Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize and allocate bandwidth a**** the connected devices based on their individual needs. This ensures smoother internet connectivity for devices that require higher network speeds, such as online gaming or video streaming.
7. Security features: Routers have built-in security features like Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) encryption to prevent unauthorized access and protect data transmitted over the network. It is important to keep the router's firmware updated to benefit from the latest security fixes.

Overall, a Wi-Fi router acts as a hub that connects multiple devices to the internet wirelessly, allowing them to communicate with each other and access online resources securely and efficiently.