You’ve probably noticed that some models of routers, in addition to other connectors, have a USB port on their case, and some even have two. Some of you even know why you need a USB on your router, as you use it to connect a 3G / 4G modem or flash drive. However, few people think about the possibilities of using the USB connector on a wifi router.
Routers have USB ports in order to allow them to communicate with assorted internet of things devices. For example, a router with a port can be connected to a printer with the same port type in order to direct messages from the router to the printer and eliminate the need for a midway device.
You can easily connect a USB flash drive or hard drive to the router, just like a regular computer. In the future, the drive can be used as network storage. So, it will not be difficult to organize a file or media server. Modern and even some relatively old TVs support DLNA technology, which will allow you to watch media content stored on the drive. You need to connect the TV to this router via wifi or cable.
In addition, you can download content from torrent trackers to such a drive. The router has its client to which you can “feed” a link or torrent file. Thus, the router will automatically download everything to the drive, and you can watch the downloaded content via DLNA.
Note that some drive models may not work due to a lack of power. This is especially true for hard drives without their network adapter. Check with the seller or manufacturer in advance. And one more important point concerns the version of the USB port. If it is 2.0, then some heavy 4K videos may slow down. Therefore, you better look for something with USB 3.0 or even 3.1.
Why is a USB port Given in the Router?
Almost all routers now have a USB connector. There are those in which there are several, as well as supporting USB 3.0. What are these ports for? How do you use them? Let’s consider in more detail.
1. To Provide Connection to the Printer
Sometimes a document that urgently needs to be printed may be on a smartphone or tablet. And it takes a very long time to look for a cord to connect it to a computer. What can be done in this case? A USB port may help since it has the special function of connecting the network to the printer. The printing device is connected to the router via the USB port, after which the shared wireless access (via wifi) is configured to it.
2. To Connect a Disk or Flash Drive
One of the main reasons you need a USB port on the router is the connection of various storage devices like a USB flash drive, a removable hard drive and many more. This is done to help a person get to the storage of the files easily.
The main advantages of connecting a disk to the USB input of the router are;
• You can download, for example, movies or music to disk, and all of them will be visible to devices connected to the router via a wireless connection.
• The user can use the drive to set up a backup, then he will be sure that the information won’t disappear along with a broken computer or laptop.
• You can also organize an FTP server. Then access to documents will be through your local home network and also the Internet. Information and files can be downloaded knowing there is a special IP address of the router.
In addition, you can ensure that the files are downloaded directly to the connected disk (USB flash drive) and configure this so that the information will be loaded even if the computer itself is turned off.
There are, of course, problems associated with the fact that the power of the router is not enough for the operation of a removable disk. It is impossible to find out in advance. You can only check after the purchase. In this case, it is recommended to exchange the router for a more advanced model.
Remember that when connected to a USB 3.0 port, the recording speed will be faster.
3. To connect the modem.
The advent of 3G / 4G technologies has allowed Internet connection speeds to become faster. And modems that support them make it possible to go online directly from a computer/ laptop and other devices. That is, several users will be able to surf the Internet at once.
Usually, you need to change the current network settings, which are located in the adapter parameters. After that, add information to the USB modem section in the menu of the router itself. The settings depend on which operator’s modem is available to the user.
Before buying a router, ask what functions it does since it does not always comply with all the listed tasks. For example, not all router models recognize 3G / 4G modems. You can also reflash the device to get more functionality. This does not always help, but in some cases, it works.
It must be remembered that it is worth using the official firmware so that there are no unforeseen problems, although the custom versions, of course, add some interesting additions. So, for example, some modems have unofficial firmware that makes it possible to connect a camera.
This can help in knowing what is happening in the apartment via the Internet or a local network. Sometimes a telephone is connected in the same way to make calls and communicate online.
Can you connect to the Router With a USB?
Many have long been using routers for networking technologies. A router is a special network device that is a network node and can combine networks of different network technologies. Using a router, you can connect a local network to the Internet and interconnect a wired and wireless network using the Ethernet or a wifi router for a USB modem.
A standard router usually has 4 to 8 ports and an antenna to create a wifi network specification. More modern router models come with USB ports. A router with a USB is more versatile and has great capabilities.
Using the USB port, you can connect a USB flash drive or hard drive to the router. You can use a router with a USB modem to distribute 3g internet. In addition, the USB port makes it possible to turn your router into a print server. If you connect a printer to the router, you can print from any computer on the created network.
A wifi router with a USB can be configured in the VPN client mode when using special firmware. The USB port creates an FTP server, connects storage devices like USB disk, flash drive, etc., to the router and connecting to a printer router.
How do I Access my USB on my Router?
Most TP-Link router models have a USB port. It is used to connect USB drives, printers, and USB modems. Here is how you can access the USB on the router;
1. Go to http://tplinkwifi.net, then log in using the TP-link ID/password you already set for the router.
2. Then go to advances, USB sharing, then USB storage device. Ensure that the USB drive has already been detected. If not, rescan and try using another port.
3. You can customize the name of the server or keep the previous one.
Enable the network neighbourhood and also FTP access methods for local access.
4. Choose a folder you want that is found on sharing content and security area.
5. Decide the way to share the folder.
6. Get access to the USB storage device
What Purpose do USB Ports Serve?
Many router models have one or more USB ports. These ports are used to expand the functionality of the device. The USB ports can connect a printer, external storage, or ADSL / 3G / 4G modem, depending on the router model. Some routers allow you to use all these features, and some – only one or two.
If the router supports connecting a printer, it has the functions of a print server, then all computers connected to the router will be able to send print jobs. If you need a print server function, be careful when choosing a router or printer! Make sure the devices are compatible.
Some router models have special USB ports. Nevertheless, it should be noted that such a port is used not only to connect a wifi printer or drive but also to connect a 3G or 4G modem to the router via a USB port and distribute the Internet network through it.
Here is the purpose of USB ports;
• Connect to a web camera and a USB phone
• Connect with a 3G or 4G modem
• Connects with a printer to serve as a network printer;
• To create an FTP server.
Final Thoughts
The appearance of a USB connector on different models of routers is an excellent expansion of their activities. Choosing a router without USB ports is not worth it since it will significantly reduce users’ capabilities. A router is not purchased every time, so it is better to buy a multi-functional device for yourself immediately.