Last Updated on March 19, 2022 by Tech Queries Team
If you are an internet user, you must have definitely heard the terms Modem and Router. While both are related to the internet, their functions are completely different. However, many users are confused between them. Therefore, we are providing a simple explanation on What is the difference between a Modem and a Router.
Table of Contents
What is a Modem?
The term Modem is the short form of Modulator and Demolutator.
Our computer was designed to send and receive digital signals. However, the internet sends and receives only analog signals. Therefore, we use the Modem as a mediator that takes the digital signal from the computer, converts it into analog, and sends it to the internet.
Similarly, it receives analog signals from the internet and converts them into digital before sending them to your computer. A Modulator converts digital signals into analog, whereas the Demodulator converts analog signals into digital.
Types of Modes:
There are two types of Modems.
- Cable Modems
- DSL Modems
Cable Modems are connected through a co-axial cable (generally used by cable operators).
DSL Modems are connected through the phone line.
Therefore, you should buy a modem after you choose an internet provider.
You cannot access the internet without a Modem. Now, if a Modem is a mediator between our computer and the internet, what is a Router? Let’s check it out.
What is a Router?
It is named a Router because it Routes the internet connection to all your devices. In simple words, A Router helps the user to split or share the internet to multiple devices like other desktops, laptops, tablets, phones, etc.
A Router can be both wired or wireless. Older Routers allowed users to connect multiple computers through the ethernet cable. Later, WiFi Routers came into existence that allows users to use the internet wirelessly on laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. Furthermore, you will also find a built-in VPN service on some Routers.
What is the difference between a Modem and a Router?
A Modem converts signals and allows users to access the internet, whereas a Router helps you pass the internet to multiple devices. If you want to connect only one computer to the internet, you don’t require a Router.
So, a few years back, if you wanted to connect multiple devices to the internet, you required both Modem and Router. However, thesedays, most manufacturers like Netgear, TP-Link, etc. are producing a combo of Modem and Router in a single device. Therefore, you don’t have to buy Modem and Router separately anymore. However, you might want a Switch if you want to connect several devices.
What is a Switch?
A Switch is a device similar to Hub that allows users to connect multiple computers/devices to each other. Nevertheless, most Routers have a built-in switch that enables users to connect 4-8 computers through the ethernet cable. But, if you want to add even more devices, you can connect a Switch to the Router.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are Modem and Router the Same?
Yes. These days Modem and Router are integrated into the same device. However, they both have different functionality.
Why Modem is Necessary for the Internet?
A computer or other device can only send and receive digital signals. But, the internet reads only analog signals. Therefore, a Modem is necessary to convert the signals to use the internet.
Will Modem work as a Router?
Yes, the modern Modems are designed to work as both Modem and Router.
Conclusion:
These days, you will find Modem, Router, and Switch in a single device. However, it is essential for every internet user to learn what is the difference between a Modem and a Router. Most internet providers provide you a suitable modem when you get an internet connection. Or else, you can easily find the Modem-Router combo in any peripherals shop near you or online. Moreover, some latest modem-cum-routers offer hardware firewall features to protect you from various types of Malware.
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