A wireless router is a network device that performs the functions of a router but also includes the functions of a wireless access point. It is commonly used to allow access to the Internet or a computer network without the need for a cabled connection. It can function in a wired LAN (local area network), a wireless only LAN, or a mixed wired/wireless network. Most current wireless routers have the following characteristics:

  • LAN ports, which function in the same manner as the ports of a network switch
  • A WAN port, to connect to a wider area network. The routing functions are filtered using this port. If it is not used, many functions of the router will be bypassed.
  • Wireless antennae. These allow connections from other wireless devices (NICs (network interface cards), wireless repeaters, wireless access points, and wireless bridges, for example).

Major manufacturers

From Wikipedia under the GNU Free Documentation License
Tue Aug 31 21:28:25 2010

Wireless router?
Q. I'm planning on buying a new router. I only need a wired router, but I'm thinking I might invest in a wireless model so that I wouldn't have to buy a wireless if I get a laptop at some point. This might be a dumb question, but it is possible to use a wireless router that has a 4 port switch built in only for wired purposes, right?
Asked by Kyle H - Fri Mar 21 13:01:11 2008 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Yes, you will find a lot of wireless routers with 4 RJ-45 ports (wired connections). Simon
Answered by simonzarate - Fri Mar 21 13:04:57 2008

What is the best wireless router to buy?
Q. I have a trendnet G wireless rounter ($10 After mailin rebate), it is performig very bad. I am planning to buy a new wireless router. I need suggestions. What is the best good wireless router for home usage? All i do is only internet browsing in my wireless.
Asked by a kannan - Sun Oct 26 17:33:27 2008 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments

A. An Apple Airport Extreme is a fantastic router, but does run at a steeper price. It is a very good peice of equipment that will last you years.
Answered by Kristen H - Sun Oct 26 17:39:35 2008

Can I connect a wireless router to an ethernet network cable to get wireless?
Q. Currently I have internet provided by an ethernet cable run into my apartment. Obviously there is a modem somewhere but I do not have access to it. I am wondering if I hook up a wireless router to said ethernet cable, will I be able to have wireless internet for my apartment? The literature I have found online has mentioned turning off a modem or what not which I am unable to do. Will this cause a problem?
Asked by ny81584 - Mon Feb 18 02:50:16 2008 - - 4 Answers - 0 Comments

A. Yes, only on certain routers with about 5 Ethernet connections, one a bit away from the other --- --- --- --- --- - 1 - - 2 - - 3 - - 4 - -EX- --- --- --- --- --- The EX port is where you would connect the router via Ethernet to another Ethernet device. Ex is for extend (to add more routers).
Answered by Andrew T - Thu Feb 21 15:31:52 2008

From Yahoo Answer Search: "wireless router"
Sat Aug 28 16:13:26 2010

TP-Link TD-W8950ND Wireless Router Announced - Zath (blog)
news.google.com
TP-Link TD-W8950ND Wireless Router Announced

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TP-Link has announced the TD-W8950ND, a wireless router with features significantly better than its name! The new router has Wireless Lite N technology, ...
Turn a Chumby into a Personal 3G Wireless Router - Lifehacker
news.google.com
Turn a Chumby into a Personal 3G Wireless Router

Lifehacker

If you had fun adding a video out to your Chumby, you might be interested in this simple hack to turn it into a 3G wireless router . Bunnie Studios, the same ...
Partnership Wireless - BroadbandReports.com
news.google.com
Partnership Wireless

BroadbandReports.com

I have the service running on a wireless router and have not experienced any issues as of this date. The service has only been installed for 2 months, ...

From Google News Search: "wireless router"
Sat Jul 17 17:51:44 2010

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Wed Jun 23 22:51:23 2010

D-Link Xtreme N Wireless -N Gigabit Router with 4-Port Switch ...
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Sun, 11 Jul 2010 19:19:58 GM

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Linksys WRT120N Wireless -N Home Router for $56.99
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 Wireless Router Setup
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Alex Ion

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 07:25:41 GM

With everyone trying to get as mobile as possible these days, adding a . wireless router. to your small home network is a must if you want to browse while cooking in the kitchen, from your yard or maybe when watching TV on the couch.

From Google Blog Search: "wireless router"
Thu Jul 15 05:07:28 2010