router

Everyday

1. A router is a small box that connects your computers, phones and tablets to the internet and to each other, often by Wi-Fi. tree →
2. A router is also a power tool that cuts shapes and grooves in wood. tree →

In the lessons

In computing lessons the router is what sends data between your home network and the internet. In everyday life, «turn the router off and on again» is a common fix when the Wi-Fi stops. Phrases: «Wi-Fi router», «restart the router», «the router's password».

Examples

• The Wi-Fi password is on a sticker on the router. tree →
• Try turning the router off and on again. tree →
• The router has little green lights that blink. tree →
• Dad moved the router upstairs so the signal is stronger. tree →
• A router sends information to the right device. tree →
• The carpenter used a router to shape the table's edge. tree →

Note

Countable: router, routers. From «route» (a way). Pronunciation: in the UK usually ROO-ter; in the USA and Canada often ROW-ter (rhymes with «outer»). Don't share the router password with strangers.