Difference between a Modem and a Router

Most folks do not know the difference between a Modem and a Router, which is not surprising. These devices make up the backbone of our home broadband internet connection. They work hand-in-hand at all times, hence their immense importance in ensuring you can read this article and watch cat videos on YouTube.

Each device plays a role, therefore, we’ve decided to explain what these devices are and how they differ because they are not the same, as some folks might summarize.

Difference between a Modem and a Router

Modems and routers are, for the most part, different. If you want to learn more about them, keep reading.

1. What is a modem
2. What is a router
3. Modem and Router combined

1] What is a Modem

OK, so when it comes down to the differences between a modem and a router, we should clarify that a modem is designed to read data coming from your ISP. From there, the data is converted into a format your computer and other devices will understand.

We should point out that computer information is stored digitally, while data carried over telephone lines is spread in the form of analog waves. A modem, then, will convert between these two forms.

Now, usually, an ethernet cable is used to connect the modem and the router to provide a wired or wireless internet connection to a household. It’s quite straightforward, if you ask us, and the tech won’t change any time soon unless 5G becomes capable of dethroning home broadband.

2] What is a Router

The router acts as a distributor, collecting data from the modem and sending it to your Windows computer and other devices. The router is also capable of receiving information from connected devices and sending everything back to the modem, which in turn travels to the ISP.

Most routers contain multiple switches that allow for connecting several devices that will share the internet connection provided by the modem. Furthermore, routers today come packed with Wi-Fi technology to deliver wireless internet connection throughout the home or business.

For the best experience, most connected devices in your home will use both the modem and router. The modem handles the connection between your home and the ISP, while the router handles the communication between your home and the connected devices within it.

Of course, there are a few exceptions to the rule, but for most cases, this is how people of the world connect to the web.

3] Modem and Router combined

In some cases, an ISP might provide a single box that acts as a modem and a router all in one. This is becoming very common as it uses less space in a home or office. However, having the modem and the router as separate devices can offer more flexibility for those who want to do more with their network.

Overall, we prefer having separate devices, which is why we suggest that if your ISP gives you a modem and router combination hardware, be sure to have a third-party router on-hand. Most internet users will be fine with what their ISP has given them, but for us who enjoy a little bit of freedom, it’s just not enough.