Reference Manual for the 54 Mbps Wireless ADSL Firewall Router DG834G

What is a Router?

A router is a device that forwards traffic between networks based on network layer information in the data and on routing tables maintained by the router. In these routing tables, a router builds up a logical picture of the overall network by gathering and exchanging information with other routers in the network. Using this information, the router chooses the best path for forwarding network traffic.

Routers vary in performance and scale, number of routing protocols supported, and types of physical WAN connection they support. The DG834G 54 Mbps Wireless ADSL Firewall Router is a small office router that routes the IP protocol over a single-user broadband connection.

Routing Information Protocol

One of the protocols used by a router to build and maintain a picture of the network is the Routing Information Protocol (RIP). Using RIP, routers periodically update one another and check for changes to add to the routing table.

The DG834G wireless router supports both the older RIP-1 and the newer RIP-2 protocols. Among other improvements, RIP-2 supports subnet and multicast protocols. RIP is not required for most home applications.

IP Addresses and the Internet

Because TCP/IP networks are interconnected across the world, every machine on the Internet must have a unique address to make sure that transmitted data reaches the correct destination. Blocks of addresses are assigned to organizations by the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA).

Individual users and small organizations may obtain their addresses either from the IANA or from an Internet service provider (ISP). You can contact IANA at www.iana.org.

The Internet Protocol (IP) uses a 32-bit address structure. The address is usually written in dot notation (also called dotted-decimal notation), in which each group of eight bits is written in decimal form, separated by decimal points.

For example, the following binary address:

11000011 00100010 00001100 00000111

is normally written as:

195.34.12.7

B-2

Network and Routing Basics

202-10006-01

Page 114
Image 114
NETGEAR DG834G manual What is a Router?, Routing Information Protocol, IP Addresses and the Internet

DG834G specifications

The NETGEAR DG834G is a versatile and reliable wireless ADSL modem/router that has gained popularity among both home and small office users. Designed to offer high-speed internet connectivity and robust network capabilities, the DG834G provides an ideal solution for users looking for both performance and convenience.

One of the standout features of the DG834G is its ADSL2/2+ compatibility, supporting download speeds of up to 24 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 1 Mbps. This makes it well-suited for activities such as streaming high-definition video, online gaming, and video conferencing. The device also ensures a reliable connection, thanks to its built-in Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities, which prioritize bandwidth allocation for critical applications.

The DG834G incorporates 802.11g wireless technology, offering wireless data transfer rates of up to 54 Mbps. This allows users to connect multiple devices to the network without experiencing significant drops in speed. Additionally, the router features a range of up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors, ensuring robust coverage for most home and small office environments.

Security is a key focus in the design of the DG834G. The router supports Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption protocols, helping to safeguard the network from unauthorized access. Users can also take advantage of the device’s firewall features, such as Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), to protect against potential online threats.

Installation and setup of the DG834G are user-friendly, featuring a web-based interface that simplifies the configuration process. This allows users to easily manage their network settings, configure parental controls, and set up guest access for visitors without compromising the primary network.

The DG834G also includes four Ethernet ports, enabling wired connections for devices that require a stable and high-speed connection, such as gaming consoles or desktop computers. This flexibility in connectivity options enhances the device’s utility for diverse networking needs.

Overall, the NETGEAR DG834G is a powerful and reliable ADSL modem/router that combines advanced features, robust security, and ease of use. Its combination of high-speed internet support and versatile connectivity options makes it an excellent choice for users looking to enhance their home or small office network.