A router’s main job is to share the internet signal between multiple devices (i.e. it creates a network). It operates using a single internet IP address and provides derivative addresses to the computers and gadgets connected to it.
Some ISPs provide two-in-one modem-router combos, thus leaving you with a single box. Others only supply a modem, forcing you to buy your own separate router. So, if a modem can connect to the Internet by itself, why is it still recommended to use a router?
The biggest reason for using a router, even if you have a single-PC setup, is security.
A modem is not a security device. It exists solely to transfer data between you and your ISP. Therefore, it offers no protection between your computer and the endless sea of internet-connected devices in the world.
It also means that your public-facing IP address resolves directly to your PC. Think of it like leaving your door unlocked: anyone with the time and inclination can dig around your computer trying to find vulnerabilities.
An anti-virus suite won’t be enough to protect you here. “Vulnerabilities” can mean anything from erroneous open ports to well-known exploits on your operating system of choice.
And in case you think your vulnerable IP address will be safe among the estimated 4.3 billion IPv4 addresses in the world, think again. Millions of automated bots search for and discover weak IP addresses around the clock, 365 days a year.
A router’s biggest advantage is that it comes with a built-in firewall that’s considerably more robust, stable, and advanced than anything provided by your operating system or third-party companies.
These are some of the biggest resons why you should use a router at home even with only on PC.
Some ISPs provide two-in-one modem-router combos, thus leaving you with a single box. Others only supply a modem, forcing you to buy your own separate router. So, if a modem can connect to the Internet by itself, why is it still recommended to use a router?
The biggest reason for using a router, even if you have a single-PC setup, is security.
A modem is not a security device. It exists solely to transfer data between you and your ISP. Therefore, it offers no protection between your computer and the endless sea of internet-connected devices in the world.
It also means that your public-facing IP address resolves directly to your PC. Think of it like leaving your door unlocked: anyone with the time and inclination can dig around your computer trying to find vulnerabilities.
An anti-virus suite won’t be enough to protect you here. “Vulnerabilities” can mean anything from erroneous open ports to well-known exploits on your operating system of choice.
And in case you think your vulnerable IP address will be safe among the estimated 4.3 billion IPv4 addresses in the world, think again. Millions of automated bots search for and discover weak IP addresses around the clock, 365 days a year.
A router’s biggest advantage is that it comes with a built-in firewall that’s considerably more robust, stable, and advanced than anything provided by your operating system or third-party companies.
These are some of the biggest resons why you should use a router at home even with only on PC.