Understanding Modem and the difference between Router and Modem
You might have often heard the word modem being tossed around whenever people talk about networking or maybe even when people plan on creating a network for an office. But did you ever wonder, what exactly is a modem? And why do people find it so important? Well, if you have, then you are at the correct spot. Because we are here to explain what a modem is to you in the simplest of words, what might have also confused you a little more is that so many people keep interchanging routers and modems with each other when talking about connecting to the Internet.
But, why do these people confuse the two? And how exactly are the two of them different?
So, if you have been thinking about these two questions and have not figured out their answers, you might want to read this article. Because this article will not only give you an in-depth understanding of a modem but also let you know the difference between a modem and router.
So, if you are ready, let’s begin!
PART -1. What is a modem?
Generally speaking, a modem is a networking device that is used by computers to connect your home network to the wider Internet. While on the other hand, the router is a box that lets all of your wired and wireless devices use that Internet connection at once and also allows them to talk to one another without having to do so over the Internet.
In a more technical sense, A modem modulates and demodulates electrical signals sent through phone lines, coaxial cables, or other types of wiring.
This means, it transforms digital information from your computer into analog signals that can transmit over wires, and it can translate incoming analog signals back into digital data that your computer can understand.
Whereas, Your router’s primary responsibility is to route data between devices in your home, and between those devices and the wider Internet.
However, if these definitions have confused you even more, then worry not.
Refer to the next part of the article to clearly understand some of the most specific difference between modem and router.
See also: What is Router? Begineers guide on Network router
Part – 2. Difference between router and modem (modem vs router)
Here is a list of differences that might make it easier for you to distinguish between the two networking devices.
| MODEM | ROUTER | |
| What it does do? | Provides wired internet access to devices | Provides wireless internet access to various devices at a time |
| When is it right for you? | If you want to connect only a single device to the internet | If you wish to provide wireless internet access to multiple devices rather than a single |
| Internet provider the device is useful with | Works well with BSNL, Airtel, etc. | Works well with any network providing company |
| Technology used | Analog signals to digital signals and vice versa | Uses IP addresses to connect devices to the internet and then finds the most efficient paths to transfer information |
| Effect on speed | Provides the highest speed due to the presence of wires | Slower as they may be some speed loss due to other wireless connection interferences. |
So, these are one of the key differences between the two networking devices. But, don’t forget, these devices are different but equally important. Both of them are pretty necessary while setting up a network and thus should be thoroughly understood before using them.
We hope that this guide has given you a clear understanding of the 2 technologies and solved some of your questions!
So, this concludes the difference between Router and modem, I hope you got your confusion sorted!
See also: Difference between switch and router ; Switch Vs Router
Let us know what other devices you would like us to cover in the comment section below!
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