Choosing the best router to use with your asymmetric digital subscriber line 2 (ADSL2) connection can involve a number of different factors. The physical configuration of an ADSL2 modem router can be important, as some units are designed for rack mounting while others can be wall or desk mounted. Another factor to consider is the feature set of the unit and whether things like a built-in print server, universal plug and play (UPnP), or WiFi® are important. You may also want to consider the compatibility of the device, both with your Internet service provider (ISP) and your computers.
The physical configuration of an ADSL2 modem router can be one of the easiest things to decide on. For most home applications, a desk or wall mount unit will be the best choice. These modem routers can either sit freely on a desk or the floor, or they may be mounted onto a surface such as a wall. Rack mounted units are typically somewhat larger in size, and can be installed with the rest of your modules on a standard frame.
A combination ADSL2 modem router can connect you to your broadband ISP and share the connection to a number of computers, though there are many other possible features to consider. One useful feature you may find in an ADSL2 modem router is UPnP, which is a set of networking protocols that can allow a variety of devices to interconnect without extensive setup. If you plan to connect any devices or use any computer programs that use UPnP, then a modem router with this feature may be your best choice. You may also want to look for a device that has built in WiFi® if you have any devices that have wireless cards. Other features, such as the ability to set up a demilitarized zone (DMZ) or a virtual private network (VPN) pass through, might dictate your best ADSL2 modem router choice, depending on your needs.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing an ADSL2 modem router is compatibility. Before purchasing a unit you may want to verify that it is compatible with your ISP. You may also want to determine if your ISP has plans to roll out ADSL2+ or other technology in the near future, as a modem router with these additional capabilities may be your best choice.
Other compatibility issues can involve your operating system (OS) and the types of ports your computer has. If you use one of the less common OSes, your best choice of a modem router might be one that has been verified to work with your system. Many modem routers will work with any OS, though there are some that can have issues. If your computer lacks an Ethernet port, you will want to choose a router with universal serial bus (USB) connections.
