Use of usb port in wifi router

To save everyone in the home having to physically connect their device in order to print, or having to purchase multiple printers, the printer could instead be connected to the router, with it essentially becoming a print server.

This will not only save on the cost of the printer itself as the latest printers that come with more features, such as wireless printing, are typically more expensive, but it just makes printing a much less painful task for everyone in the household.

Connecting a cellular-based USB modem to the router allows you to share a mobile Internet connection with your entire home network. Should your broadband service go down for whatever reason, be it a cable fault or a problem with the service itself, the cellular connection provided by the USB dongle can be a great backup solution. The USB port on a router can be a useful way to update its firmware, configuration or any other information stored internally.

Perhaps you wish to take advantage of more than one of the uses I have described above, but there is only a single USB port on your router. I have heard stories of the USB port failing completely when USB hubs were plugged in, so my recommendation would be to stay on the safe side and not plug in a USB hub. Keep the USB port set aside for whichever use case that we described above that you feel will be most beneficial to you.

The USB port on a router essentially allows you to share a particular device over your network, making it accessible to multiple users or devices at the same time.

The most common, and probably the most useful, uses are for the sharing of an external storage device or an older printer that cannot be connected to the network wirelessly. Other uses include the ability to charge certain devices that require little power input, an alternative way of being able to install firmware and updates, and the being a backup cellular connection should your primary broadband link go down.

For Windows users, do not set the sharing username the same as the Windows username. Otherwise, Windows credential mechanism may cause the following problems:. Enable Authentication to apply the account you just set. Note: Due to Windows credential mechanism, you might be unable to access the USB disk after changing Authentication settings. Please log out from the Windows and try to access it again. Or you can change the address of the USB disk.

Home Network Community. Knowledge Base. Log In Register. To Only Share Specific Content 1. Note: For Windows users, do not set the sharing username the same as the Windows username. Add Hyperlink. In such routers, the USB 3. The USB 2. This is especially true if you are looking to attach other network devices such as hard-drives, printers, and scanners that do not have wireless capabilities.

Besides connecting network devices, you can also use the USB ports on your router for charging low-power devices or powering cooling devices such as laptop coolers to prevent the router from overheating. As an Amazon Associate we earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases. Sign in. Forgot your password? Get help. Password recovery. Home Networking.