Understanding how your network connects to the Internet can be quite technical, but it’s also fascinating. More importantly, this knowledge can prove beneficial for troubleshooting issues with internet connectivity. To ensure your network communicates with the internet, it requires specific types of hardware. Some of these may include modems, cable wires, routers, and switches; however, the primary device that sets up this connection is commonly known as a router.
Role of the Router
The router is an essential hardware device that forms the ‘Internet gateway’ for your network. It allows all other devices in your network—computers, smartphones, smart TVs, etc., to connect to the Internet. This small but extremely crucial device directs data traffic between your home or business network and the worldwide web.
To ensure communication between your devices and the internet, routers analyze data packets’ destination addresses then direct them to their intended destination (another device in your network or an external server). In addition, modern routers can frequently serve as a wireless access point, extending WiFi coverage throughout your premises.
The Connection Process
When you connect your Internet-ready device to a router, the device is assigned a unique internal IP address. This IP address is used for identification within the internal network. When you send a request, such as accessing a web page, the router directs this request to the Internet server holding the requested web page’s data.
The server responds to the request by sending the web page data back to the router, which then directs the data to the correct device based on the internal IP address. Thus, even with multiple devices requesting different web pages at the same time, the router ensures data is accurately delivered without mixup.
Working with ISPs
You may be wondering, “if a router is so important, why can’t I just plug it into the wall and start using the internet?” Well, the answer lies in ISPs or Internet Service Providers. ISPs are the companies that provide you with the ability to access the internet. They have special devices termed modems that convert the analogue signal coming from the external network to a digital signal that can be utilized by your router.
Many ISPs today offer combined devices that act as both a modem and a router. However, businesses and some households still prefer to keep these as separate devices to have more control over their network configurations.
What is Meraki Management
Upgrading from a home network to a business-grade network infrastructure requires more advanced hardware and increased management capabilities. That’s where Meraki management comes into play. Meraki, a subsidiary of Cisco, offers cloud-controlled WiFi, routing, and security solutions.
Meraki management offers a range of devices, including routers, switches, and firewalls, equipped with cloud management features. These features enable IT teams to manage, configure and troubleshoot network devices from any online device. The Meraki Dashboard provides complete visibility and control over the network traffic, device health, and security settings.
Furthermore, Meraki management supports a variety of protocols and features, including QoS, VLANs, and VPNs, ensuring the network can be customized to meet your specific needs. So, if you’re looking for increased manageability and visibility for your network, Meraki management can be an excellent choice.
In conclusion, understanding the hardware that connects your network to the Internet can resolve many common networking issues. More importantly, it can empower you to craft a network that suits your unique needs, whether that’s stable Internet for home use or a business-grade network infrastructure with professional management features such as Meraki management.