A WLAN router (wireless local area network) allows computers to connect wirelessly to a network. The idea is to give mobility to computers while allowing the same fast rate of the transfer of data packets, as would be expected from wired connections. This adds a great deal of convenience, so that many users can share resources efficiently from wherever they are. The range of course will be limited, as the receiving card in the laptop or computer will need to be within broadcast distance of the WLAN router, which will be sending out the data. This is usually limited to some kind of internal environment such as the home or the office. The usage of this mobile technology grew with the expansion in popularity in laptops over desktop machines. With this increase, came the advent of the public wireless local area networks, which meant that users could carry their laptops into public spaces, such as coffee shops and airports, and get connected to the internet through the public connection. Of course there are more questions over security when using a computer in a public space on WLAN connection. A users firewall and network setting protections should be in place when browsing in a public domain. This will help to protect your own information from hackers. There are more uses for a WLAN network than just connecting to a central server in order to access and share files. With the increased reliability of network sharing, it added a new dimension to the workplace, essentially cutting out the need for problems of running wires throughout the environment. When a new user with a computer is needed to be added to an existing network, then there is no need to worry about hard wiring them in. All they would need is their wireless network card to get set up. The benefits also come in the cost of not having to deal with wiring, as hardware for the two methods similarly priced, but the extra expense coming in running and installing cable networks. WLAN expands the capability of a work and home sharing environment. Telephone calls can be made with VOIP connections thanks to the effectiveness of a shared network, which will help cut down costs. For people worried over the security involved with hanging their computer on a network, there are naturally plenty of guidelines to follow in order to stay safe. Firewalls and other control filters for the IP address and domain name will all ensure that tight security protocols are met. Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption is something which is commonly seen on wireless routers. These are necessary precautions because WLAN capability can mean access to more than network.