What does my B4RN Router do?

A domestic broadband router is a multifunction networking device that serves as a gateway between your local area network (LAN) and the wider internet. It is equipped with multiple network interfaces, including one that connects to B4RN’s incoming fibre optic ethernet feed, this contrasts to other technologies like Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) which is typically provided over a telephone line.

B4RN  currently still operates IPv4 network addressing and so assigns each of the domestic routers on its network with a Public IP address made up of 4 groups of  3 numbers , typically  they might look something like 55.155.99.33. B4RN owns the right to certain blocks of public IP addresses and assigns them out to customers as they are added to the network. As B4RN has expanded it has had to buy new Public IP’s from other registered owners. 

The router then utilizes Network Address Translation (NAT) to assign private IP addresses to each device in your home network. These private IP addresses are internal to your network and not visible on the internet. This allows all your devices to share the same public IP address provided by your ISP, thereby conserving IPv4 address space.

The router acts as a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server, which means it dynamically assigns IP addresses to devices as they connect to the network. This way, you don't have to manually configure each device   you introduce into your network

The router's wireless capability is provided by Wi-Fi, which operates on different frequency bands such as 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. It uses radio signals to establish wireless connections with compatible devices in its vicinity. The Wi-Fi network is secured using various encryption protocols like WPA2 or WPA3, protecting your data from unauthorized access. The wifi can be extended through larger properties by using mesh technology.  More details can be found on this page  Wifi 

Quality of Service (QoS) is a feature in modern routers that allows you to prioritize certain types of network traffic over others. For instance, you can prioritize video streaming or online gaming traffic to ensure a smooth experience, even when other devices are using the internet simultaneously.

B4RN routers  come equipped with firewall and intrusion prevention capabilities. These security features help protect your network from malicious activities, such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, and block unwanted incoming traffic while allowing essential outbound data.

B4RN routers also have the ability to provide a Voice over IP, more detail can be found here

The router's firmware, which is its built-in software, can be updated by the manufacturer to improve performance, security, and add new features. B4RN manage this function on behalf of their users, allowing them to coordinate and manage the routers as part of their overall network .

In summary, a domestic broadband router is a sophisticated networking device that connects your home network to the internet. It uses NAT, DHCP, and Wi-Fi technologies to share the internet connection among your devices, assigns private IP addresses, and enables communication within your local network. Additionally, it offers security features like firewalls and encryption to protect your network and data from potential threats.

Over the time it has been operating B4RN has deployed a range of Routers from Genexis and Zyxel Communications.  Its worthwhile noting that the router belongs to B4RN even though it is in your house, you purchase the service but do not own the router A brief summary of the different models  that you may come across as a customer is given in the relevant pages . Genexis  and Zyxel .  All B4RN routers have a gigabit capable fibre optic adaptor inside them, unlike ordinary phone line routers. They cannot be moved from the installation point except by a qualified engineer or the optic may be damaged.

In 2024 B4RN adopted a fibre networking  standard and protocol for some of its projects called XGS-PON, the first customers to use this technology are based in Northumbria. As part of the project that rolled out this technology, B4RN customers are being supplied with a make of router new to B4RN, Nokia.