Wired

• Wireless routers typically have four or more Ethernet ports for connecting computers and other devices. However, as devices move away from the traditional Ethernet port, USB connections are becoming more common. Some routers have USB ports as well as Ethernet ports or simply USB ports. Some models also provide both connections as an option; however, you should not use both to connect multiple devices. If you wish to connect multiple devices, choose a router with multiple Ethernet ports.
  
  

Wireless

• Not only do wireless routers differ from wired models, but there are several types. Three common wireless standard exist: 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n. At the time of publication, many wireless routers use the backward-compatible 802.11n standard; however, older routers may use Wireless B or G standards. As of 2009, the 802.11 standard offers up to five times the speed of 802.11g and twice the signal range -- 70-feet indoors and 230-feet outdoors. In comparison, the previous 802.11g protocol boasted speeds of up to 54 megabits per second at a frequency of 2.4-GHz. Wireless 802.11b protocols were even less efficient, offering speeds of 11-megabits per second at the same frequency and distance range of 802.11g. If your devices are compatible, the 802.11 standard is more efficient and consistent than prior frequencies.
  
  

Security

• Wired routers are inherently more secure because someone must physically connect to access the network. However, unsecured wireless networks are easier to access to steal Internet connection or view transmitted data. Wired equivalent privacy was a security protocol for wireless networks that intended to deter unauthorized access. Since its inception, Wi-Fi protected access standards became available, offering stricter encryption that better protected wireless local area networks. At the time of publication, WPA2 is now also available. Wireless routers may provide one or more methods of wireless security for you to employ to secure your network.
  
  

Other Differences

• One difference you may consider when shopping for routers is whether a wireless router has an internal or external antenna. If it has an external antenna, you may be able to swap it out with a stronger antenna to improve your signal. In addition to this, some wireless routers support Wi-Fi Protected Setup, a feature that allows you to temporarily turn off the security protocol to allow a new device to connect. Netgear is one manufacturer that offers routers with this feature, which the company calls Push 'n' Connect. One last consideration between types of routers is whether you need a router and modem combination. This device connects to your Internet connection and enables a local area network between computers and other devices. With the combination device, you do not need a separate modem and router.