The difference between a modem and a router is not hard to comprehend. A router enables a connection between your devices and the WiFi. On the other hand, a modem establishes a connection to the internet. If you have opted for an internet package in which your Internet Service provider has to give you both, then there are chances that you can get the two mixed up.
As a consumer, if you are aware of the differences between a modem and a router, you can avail the benefits if you know how each of them works. You can save up on renting from your ISP by purchasing the equipment.
What Modems Do?
A modem establishes a connection between your home network and an internet source from your ISP whether you are using a cable provider, a DSL, fiber optics, satellite, or dial-up phone connection. The modem uses an Ethernet cable to connect to your router or to your computer directly. Different types of services call for different modems and you can’t interchange them.
Subscribers can take a modem on rent from their ISP for a monthly amount. But customers can purchase cable modems at low prices. If you plan on retaining the same service for about one year or more, then you have to pay somewhere around $10 extra every month. But if you purchase a cable modem for $100, it will pay for itself in some time. But keep in mind that you can rent FIOS-compatible modems from Verizon as they are hard to come across.
What Routers Do?
Routers establish a connection to a modem for creating a private network in a house, office, or business place like a cafe. A device makes a connection to a local router when you connect it to WiFi. The router brings your smart devices such as a smartphone or a tablet to life. It also includes products such as smart lights, security systems, and speakers such as Amazon echo. You can also stream your favourite content on your mobile device or a computer via The Like, Netflix, Hulu, etc. without the use of any cables.
There are ISPs that offer routers to customers on a rental basis. But if you want to avail the benefits of the latest technology to the fullest, it is worth purchasing one. When you go ahead and buy a wireless router, you can choose the option that suits you the best. For example, if you are a passionate gamer, select the model that suits your needs. Similarly, if you are purchasing for office, analyse the activities you need to do and select a model accordingly.
Modem and Router Combo Devices
A modem integrated with a router provides the same functionalities that you can rent from your ISP. If you have a phone package, internet, and a cable, you can also avail the VoIP function. The biggest downside of having a combo device is that if one part breaks down, the entire thing will be of no use at all. However, if you don’t require the brand new technology, purchasing a combo can be convenient.
What Are Mesh Networks?
There are some scenarios in which one wireless router can’t cover an entire house or an office. This might be because of multiple flooring, impenetrable walls, complicated layout or a vast area. There are range extenders that enable customers to avoid dead zones and establish a connection with your router to expand its reach. However, in this case, the bandwidth in the areas surrounding the extender decreases. This means that the speed of browsing and downloading will decline. In a situation like this, investing in a mesh network is a wise move.
A Wi-Fi mesh network comprises several nodes or satellites and a primary router. The entire structure resembles a chain. Mesh network nodes effectively communicate with one another, unlike extenders that establish communication with just the router. Bandwidth is not lost and the signal remains strong. It’s as powerful as when you are standing close to a primary router. You can set up as many nodes as you want without any limits. All you need is your smartphone to manage them. Depending on the type of space you need a connection for, you can opt for a range extender or a mesh network. If the number of barriers, for instance, impenetrable walls are high, you can consider using a mesh network. Also, a mesh network is useful if you can’t compromise with browsing or download speed.
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