To connect to the network we must take into account that there are different devices and tools needed. We talk about all the wiring, the router, the network card, the equipment we use … Sometimes the terms we use can be confused. That is why in this article we wanted to focus on two of them. We will explain the differences between a router and modem . We will talk about what each one is for.
What is a modem?
A modem is a device that is between the router and the line of our operator. Basically what it does is translate the information that the Internet operator sends us and in this way send them to the device from which we connect.
Each modem has a public IP address that is unique. Usually that connection between the home and the operator is made through a coaxial cable. What this device does is translate the signal it receives in digital, so that the teams can understand it. Normally, the signal arrives through a copper wire or telephone lines, using electricity and analog signals, respectively. The modem translates that information and converts it into digital.
In short, we can say that a modem is simpler than a router. In this case, its function is to modulate and demodulate the Internet signal. This means that it interprets the signal it receives and then sends it to a computer or any other compatible peripheral. A modem uses what is called the WAN network. We can say that the modem takes the Internet to our home.
What is a router
On the other hand we have the router . It is the device that we all have in our home to connect to the network. Basically its function is to connect to the modem and also to the different equipment we have. This way you can receive the information and expand it to other devices either by cable or via Wi-Fi.
A router assigns a local IP address to each device, unlike the modem that has a unique public IP. In this case the router brings Internet to our devices. It is capable of creating a LAN network.
The router is a more complex device. It can have one or several external antennas, several ports to connect devices via Ethernet, as well as different options related to the configuration. This device has a separate Ethernet port that is connected to the modem.
The router sends and receives network traffic from the modem with a connection, and routes all that data through its Ethernet ports (usually four), and, as we have mentioned, through Wi-Fi through the 2.4GHz bands and 5GHz
Router and modem on the same device
We have explained what a router and a modem are separately. However, many users have a combo in which they have a modem and a router on the same device. It is a way to save space and not have to have two devices. Today is the most common.
In this case in the same device we have everything necessary to connect to the Internet.
Today we have a large number of devices connected to the network. This makes it necessary to have a suitable router that allows us to have a wireless network of guarantees . Especially with the rise of what is known as Internet of Things devices, having a good router that is capable of supporting many connections is necessary.
The necessary security in the router must also be taken into account. We must always protect our devices and not compromise security and privacy when browsing.