The basic bumf above is all well and good, but to get the most from a router, wireless or not, the optimal approach is to swap its default, generally rubbish firmware with a more functional alternative, then to adhere to those tips we've already covered.
The procedure is similar to flashing a cell phone—for instance, replacing Windows Mobile with Android—so this is not an undertaking for the faint-hearted. It's possible to brick a device, rendering it unusable. Meanwhile, not all devices are upgradeable. Then again, online tutorials are multifarious and successfully hacked models sport advanced security and networking features, as well as a potential performance boost, at no cost bar time.
In a nutshell, here's a taste of the security benefits from a souped-up router:
It can access and share files between networks more safely
It can act as a remote proxy for securely surfing from elsewhere
It can provide an advanced, centrally managed firewall for your network