DSL Hardware

DSL Firewall
If your computer contains sensitive data, or there's users in your home whose access you want to restrict, a useful part of DSL hardware for you might be a DSL firewall. DSL firewalls come in both software and hardware packages. If you only want to protect one machine, a standard personal firewall software package will likely do the trick. If, however, your DSL firewall needs to protect an entire network from potential attacks, but needs to permit unrestricted access between computers on the network, then a hardware firewall will suit your needs much better.

DSL Wireless Hub Advantages
Because the signal from a DSL wireless hub is broadcast evenly over a given radius, depending on the size of your home, you can get likely get wireless net access in every room. This is a really good advantage if you have a laptop computer and want to look up a recipe online in the kitchen, or if you want to have a number of friends over to play an online game. Though the signal weakens as you move away from the DSL wireless hub, most come with adjustable antennas that permit you to focus the signal a bit, making this a very useful part of DSL hardware.

About DSL Hardware
DSL hardware tips: "DSL hardware" refers to part of computer equipment needed to have a functional DSL connection. Though a computer capable of handling a broadband net connection fits this definition, it is generally not considered DSL hardware, since it is not specific to the DSL service. Generally, the term refers to things such as a DSL modem, DSL router, DSL wireless hub, or other internet-specific device.

DSL Router Advantages
More DSL hardware tips: Unlike a DSL wireless hub, DSL routers force you to have wires connecting your computer to the router at all times. Though this limits the mobility of your machine, it generally makes for a faster connection, because the signal will be equally strong almost regardless of how far away from the router it is. Also, unlike signals from a DSL wireless hub, signals from a DSL router a very secure - no one can just come along and pick your net signal from this part of broadband DSL hardware out the air. This reduces the risk of identity theft and prevents third parties from using your DSL signal to commit illegal acts online.

DSL Router
A DSL router is another common part of DSL hardware. Unlike a DSL modem, however, it is not required for a DSL connection to operate. A DSL Router, sometimes also referred to (less accurately) as a "switch" or "hub," takes an incoming broadband connection and routs it into a number of incoming lines, usually 4. This is ideal if you have more than one computer you want your DSL connection to serve. However, remember that all the computers you link to a DSL router will be splitting the bandwidth they use, meaning that if two computers are running on the router at once, their net connections will be half as fast.

DSL Modem
A DSL Modem is an absolutely necessary part of DSL hardware. Although DSL signals are transmitted over you phone line, a conventional dial-up or 56k modem can't read them and relay the signal to your computer. DSL modems vary in price from around 50 dollars to nearly 200. Fortunately, most DSL providers include a modem as part of their installation or monthly service fee. Some even permit you to upgrade to more expensive modems at a discounted price.

DSL Wireless Hub
A DSL wireless hub is a part of broadband hardware that would be more accurately described as a DSL wireless router. Similar to a non-wireless DSL router, a DSL wireless hub takes an incoming signal and reroutes it to multiple computers. The difference with a DSL wireless hub is that rather than split the signal, it broadcasts it out in radio waves. Any computer with a wireless card can receive this signal and use it to link to the internet. This is an easy and wire-free way to provide net access throughout your house.