In praise of a router with DSL.
I lurk here a lot plus checked the thread archive search utility and saw little about the use of a router with DSL. So, FWIW, here are my comments about the one recently installed.
Got a D-Link router on the "Deal of the Day" at NewEgg.com. After inserting some info about my connection, stuff like the DNS and IP addresses, the install Wizard did its thing.
I learned from the process that the PPPoE software in my computer is no longer needed. The DSL connection is now done via similar software burned into the router's firmware. So, nothing is needed in my computer to connect to DSL. This saves a small amount of RAM but it means I am literally "always on." Just turn on the computer, load a copy of the browser and there it is -- the Internet. Zone Alarm is no longer loaded, as well. Internet and computer performance seem a little quicker. Life is good.
A router does provide a very adequate firewall (NAT and all that stuff). It protects me from unsolicited stuff coming in. But, if my machine were somehow to become infected with a worm that tries to send out email from my machine, I would need my own personal firewall. But, for now, I will continue to practice safe hex and enjoy the freedom and simplicity of a router connection.
Dick |
