Modem or Modem with Router?

[Mick @ the Lake]

Hello Everybody; I am new to the forum and I have a question regarding Internet security.
I was told by a very knowledgeable Tech that If I installed a router btwn. my modem and my DSL phone line My PC would be much better protected. Presently my ethernet runs to modem and phone line out the other end. My ISP is my phone co. Centurytel.
I run XP with a Westell modem (Mdl. E99-610014-03) btwn my Ethernet cable and my DSL phone line.
I also run AVG internet security suite "full Version" (Very satisfied with it).
I leave my PC on 24/7 .
Is there much added security advantage to adding a router. I run a standalone PC.

I am fairly comfortable with computers, but I know just enough to be dangerous
Any help will be appreciated
Frank Mick @ The Lake

[mojo]

You will get much more security by adding a router, since it acts as a stand-alone hardware firewall.

[Mick @ the Lake]

Originally Posted by mojo You will get much more security by adding a router, since it acts as a stand-alone hardware firewall.

Thanks for the reply. My Tech was right. Is it hard to install? or just insert it btwn
the modem and the phone line ?

[mojo]

Actually it goes between the modem and your computer, not the modem and phone line. Once you connect it you'll need to log into the built-in web administration page and configure it properly. Another advantage of having a router is that you can hook up as many different computers as you want to your internet connection.

[glc]

Your modem may already have router functions. Open a command prompt and type ipconfig - what are the first 3 octets of your IP address? (example - 192.168.1.100, the 100 is the 4th octet, leave that off for security here)

[Mick @ the Lake]

Originally Posted by glc Your modem may already have router functions. Open a command prompt and type ipconfig - what are the first 3 octets of your IP address? (example - 192.168.1.100, the 100 is the 4th octet, leave that off for security here)

The first 3 octets of my IP address are 192.168.1
Thanks Frank

[glc]

Most 6100 series Westell DSL modems are also routers, and the IP address you provided confirms that yours is in the router mode. You are fine, no need to buy an additional router.

My admin powers here allow me to look up the IP address you used to make your post, and the first 3 octets of yours are 207.119.41. The router is "translating" it to the 192.168.1 "private" IP address.

Between the modem/router and the full AVG suite, you are well protected.

[Mick @ the Lake]

Originally Posted by glc Most 6100 series Westell DSL modems are also routers, and the IP address you provided confirms that yours is in the router mode. You are fine, no need to buy an additional router. My admin powers here allow me to look up the IP address you used to make your post, and the first 3 octets of yours are 207.119.41. The router is "translating" it to the 192.168.1 "private" IP address. Between the modem/router and the full AVG suite, you are well protected.

Thanks to all who posted answers to my question. I learned something today
Frank