Will getting a router improve my PC security?

Question

I have a single PC in my home that I connect to the Internet using a cable modem. I have heard that a router will improve my PC security by acting as an extra barrier that malicious software must get through before it reaches my PC. I do not have any other computers, so I do not need a router for networking purposes. Is it worthwhile to get a router? Is a wireless router as effective as a wired one? What type of router would you recommend? How do I set up a the connections between the PC, router, and cable modem?

Answer 1

A NAT router acts as a firewall.

It acts as a traffic manager for traffic (packets) to and from other machines, either within it's own local network (LAN) or to and from the wide area network (WAN [or the Internet]).

Packets are sent outbound to a specific destination (a 'query'), and correctly configured "reply" packets are directed inbound to the corresponding machine behind the router/firewall, that asked for the packet(s) which are then manifested in the application that made the request (typically a browser, but not necessarily).

Un-requested packets attempting to enter the LAN are dropped.



If you request (with a browser for instance) a file that has malware bundled in it, it will NOT stop the malware; because it would appear as a legit returning file to the router, and be dutifully forwarded to the requesting machine.

They do not have analytic capabilities: just simple flow control parameters.

Routers are however beneficial, as a frontline defense, because they differ from software (on-board) firewalls, in that the former is external and independent of the Operating System; the later within the OS, and if there occurs a corruption of that OS, the firewall can be compromised, unknown to the system user.

Answer 2

I don't think that a router with improve your PCs security. All that a router is for is to connect the internet to a laptop or another PC that isn't directly plugged into the telephone line. It isn't going to give you any extra protection. I believe that it would be a waste of money to purchase the router. A wireless router is just as effective as a wired one yes but there is a possibility that with a wireless one the protection might not be as great. Hope I helped!(:

Answer 3

That's actually a pretty decent router. If you're having issues within close proximity to the router, then it may be the WIC in the router is failing, if you only notice weak signals at further distances, I would recommend a Access Point or WLAN range extender.

Answer 4

Not really. The router's function is to create a network of computers, as you have no intentions of using it for this purpose, it is basically worthless to you. A wireless router would technically lessen your security as it would provide access to your computer's network if not properly secured (in a practical sense, it would not be any harm).



Though any decent router would be equipped with a firewall feature, it is no more effective then your computer's own firewall features. Some users will disable one of those firewalls to avoid conflicts between them. Most infections gain access through one of the ports you have open in your firewall for your own use. These holes will be opened in both firewalls anyway.

Answer 5

a router wont really protect you. just get some good anti virus. the router will be a waste of money.



you may also be thinking of a physical firewall, not a router.