Configure and Setup of Networking Routers, Switches, Modems and More
Bringing Your Tech to Life provides a variety of innovative and comprehensive network solutions. We deliver quality services in the most efficient way, and our experts will work collaboratively with you to customize our offerings to your particular needs.
INTERNET MODEMS
The modem connects to your ISP, which typically provides either cable or DSL Internet service. Cable modems have a coaxial (or "coax") connection, which is the same type of connector found on a TV or cable box. This connects to a cable port on the wall. DSL modems have a telephone connector, also called an RJ-11 jack, which connects to a telephone socket on the wall.
We have provided additional information on Internet Service Providers here.
By connecting your modem to your router (instead of directly to a computer), all devices connected to the router are connected to the modem, and therefore, the Internet. The router provides a local IP address to each connected device, but they will all have the same external IP address, which is assigned by your ISP.
ROUTERS
A router is the hardware device that acts as the traffic cop for network signals arriving at your home or business from your ISP. A router can be wired, wireless or both.
Your router provides a defense against hackers and directs content to the specific computer, device, streaming device, or printer that should receive it.
Often your ISP provides the network router it prefers for your internet service. When it does, the router is configured appropriately. If you choose to use a different router, you may need to enter information into it.
MESH NETWORKS
A mesh network is a network of interlocked routers called nodes. These nodes work with one another to supply internet coverage over a broad area, something a traditional home wireless router can’t provide.
A mesh network consists of multiple routers that each provide coverage but is still a single network since each is also communicating with the other nearby nodes.
The result is a single network that has far better coverage than a single router can provide. A mesh network can deliver internet access anywhere the nodes can reach, like through a three-story house or even across several city blocks.
WIRELESS RANGE EXTENDERS
A Wireless Range Extender may sound similar to a Mesh Network, when in fact it is not. A Range Extender is receives a wireless signal from your existing wireless router, cleans it up and redistributes it. They are ideal for that one small dead spot where one or two users need WiFi. However a Range Extender creates a lot of latency or lag in a network and is not advised except under certain curcumstances.
POWER LINE ADAPTERS
A powerline adapter is an alternative to running in-wall Ethernet cables or relying on possible unstable WiFi. A powerline adapter has the ability to send data over your household's existing electrical wiring just like it would over Ethernet cables.
Unless you want to run long Ethernet cables throughout your house or pay to have Ethernet cables installed in your walls, you need another more convenient solution to connect your media player, smart TV and/or other network-enabled home theater device.
WIRELESS ACCESS POINTS
Wireless access points (APs or WAPs) are networking devices that allow Wi-Fi devices to connect to a wired network. They form wireless local-area networks (WLANs). An access point acts as a central transmitter and receiver of wireless radio signals. Mainstream wireless APs support Wi-Fi and are used in homes, public internet hotspots, and business networks to accommodate wireless mobile devices. The access point can be incorporated into the wired router or stand-alone router.
These devices provide the best method for increasing wireless signal through a struct as the data is transmitted back to the router over an Ethernet wire and do not create latency like Wireless Range Extenders.
NETWORK SWITCHES & POE
An Ethernet Switch is used to connect multiple wired devices to your network. It is very similar to a power strip in the since that one wire goes back to the router and all your devices connect to close by. A Switch is ideal for a Home Theater System as it provides a more reliable and faster connection than WiFi.
Some Ethernet Switches have a feature called Power of Ethernet or PoE which not only allows the transmission of data but also provides power. There are many devices today that can be power over PoE instead of a traditional AC Adapter. Devices may include Wireless Access Points, Security Cameras, Point of Sale Systems, Televisions and Voice over IP Phones.