Most modern routers have a USB port that nobody uses. File server, network printer, home NAS: all of that is just one cable away.
If you have a modern router at home or in the office, there is a good chance it has a USB port on the side that has been collecting dust for months or years. It is not decorative. It is one of the most underrated features of any home or small business network, and in many cases it can save you from buying additional hardware.
The most common use: shared file server
Plug a hard drive or a USB stick into the router and, on most models, you will automatically have a file server accessible from any device on your network. No installation required, no extra cables, no computer left on all day. The files appear as a network folder on Windows, Mac or Linux.
It is a perfect solution for small teams that need to share documents without paying for a dedicated NAS or a cloud storage plan. The limit is the speed of the USB and the router, which rarely exceeds 30-40 MB/s, but for office files that is more than enough.
Shared network printer
If you have an old printer that only has a USB connection, plugging it into the router can turn it into a network printer accessible to all devices in the home or office. Not all routers support this, but many current models do. Checking the router manual takes ten minutes and could save you from buying a new printer.
Basic home NAS
A NAS (Network Attached Storage) is basically a hard drive connected to the network. Dedicated NAS devices from brands like Synology or QNAP cost between €150 and €500. Connecting a drive to the router USB does not give you all their features, but it does give you the basics: shared storage, remote access on some models, and automatic backup from other devices.
Charging devices (with caveats)
Technically the router USB can charge a phone, but the power is usually a maximum of 500 mA, which in practice means very slow charging. It is not what it is designed for and on some routers it can generate unnecessary heat. Only use it if you have no other option.
4G backup connection
Some routers allow connecting a 4G USB modem or mobile data dongle to have a backup internet connection if the fibre goes down. It is a feature that almost nobody knows about and that can save a working day for a small business. Not all routers support it, but it is worth checking.
How to find out what your router supports
The quickest way is to enter the router admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) with the username and password on the sticker. Look for a section called "USB", "Storage" or "File Server". If there is nothing, check the manual on the manufacturer's website by searching for the exact model.
The USB port on your router is hardware you already have and already paid for. Ignoring it is leaving money on the table.
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