Having a viable internet connection is the need of the hour. Every person with work needs a good and stable internet connection and a modem and router play a quintessential role in the same. Broadband plays a crucial role in many aspects of our lives. From work to general life, it helps keep you connected to people around you.
From helping you watch videos to streaming your favorite online games, both modem and a router help match up to all your requirements. However, many people have this question whether one should get an independent modem and router or stick to the combination of both.
Here’s we will be discussing everything there is to know about a modem and router and why they are a quintessential need in every part of your broadband journey.
What is a Modem?
Unless you have no idea of things, you won’t likely know what a modem is. A modem is a modulator-demodulator that is what it denotes. During the initial days of network and broadband, network companies made use of the same copper wiring used for the telephones to ensure smoother connectivity.
However, over time, things have changed for the better and that is when the modems were introduced. Sending all the data, especially the binary codes over metal wasn’t an easy task and that was where the modem came into play.
When the data was sent as signals, there needed to be a device that would modulate and demodulate the signals coming back and that is exactly what a modem does. It doesn’t matter whether you are getting an RCN compatible modem or a Comcast one; their functions are all the same.
A modem facilitates the seamless connection between your home networks with the outside network. The entire work is done leveraging your IP address which is uniquely provided to you by your internet service provider. This is perfect for every networked device that is running on the internet.
What is a Router?
Now that we have discussed the basics of a modem, it is time we do the same with the routers too. A router is a device that helps with local area networking. Not only does it help manage your devices and wireless connectivity options, but it also sends requests to the webpage on behalf of you without any complications associated.
Most of the wired routers are now integrated with the Ethernet ports which come in handy when you are trying to connect them to external devices for enhanced functionalities.
What is the significance of using a Modem and a Router?
If this is your first time getting an internet connection for your home or office, chances are that you’d have lingering questions about the use of a modem and router. You’d question the type of modem you’d need, whether you’d need a DOCSIS 3.1 variant or a standard one. The same goes out for the routers too.
If you are on a budget and need to find the best deal with your modem and router, there are 2-in-1 options that come with the dual functionalities of both the modems and the router. This means that you wouldn’t need two separate devices, instead, you can make the most use out of the one combined device for all your networking needs.
Why should you get a standalone Modem and Router?
While it is true that the combined modem and router devices are budget-friendly and highly functional, they also come with a few downsides that not many people discuss.
It doesn’t matter whether you are looking for a WOW compatible modem or a standard option for the other cable providers; you need to be mindful of the importance of a standalone modem and router over the combined devices.
Here’s why they are considered a superior option:
- Get ISP support
The first and likely the most important part about getting a standalone modem or router is that you get optimal ISP support with the same. Sometimes, your ISP might have issues with a combined device, in which case a standalone modem and router are what you need to make your life easier.
- Enhanced features
This is not even a question but having a standalone modem and router like the Verizon compatible modems and routers are eventually going to make your life a lot easier. They are backed with a lot more features than you’d anticipate, which goes to show that sometimes spending a little extra money can last you a long way. So, instead of just spending combined fees on a modem and router combination device, get a standalone one because they come with enhanced features like extra security controls, better functionalities, improved parental control, and a lot more than you’d likely anticipate.
- Better performance
Unless you are a tech-savvy kid, you wouldn’t know this. But, when you are using a standalone router or modem, even if your router stops working, you can directly plug your modem into the computer and get going with the work. The same isn’t the case with a combined or 2-in-1 device. With these, you need to be mindful of their performance. If the device stops working, there is absolutely nothing you can do to make things work, unless you get it fixed totally or have it replaced with a new one.
While it is true that standalone modem and routers come with a range of positive aspects, it comes with a downside too. The biggest of them all is the placement. Standalone devices require more space around your home, so you need to find a dedicated space where you can place the router and modem and ensure there are no dead logs around the house.
If you are questioning why you need both a modem and a router for efficient connectivity and an internet connection, we hope this article answers all your queries. Just ensure that you get your hands on the correct products and not the mediocre ones just because they cost less. At the end of the day, you want to invest in options that will last you longer.
FAQs
What is the difference between a modem and a router?
A modem and router are two different devices and they have different functions to perform. While a modem connects your home network to the Internet, a router allows all your devices to access the internet at once. It enables your devices to interact with each other.
Do I need both a router and modem for Wi-Fi?
Both modem and routers are two separate devices. But they work together to build a network connection for your home. With the evolution of technology, the two devices have been merged. This means you no longer have to buy a separate router and a separate modem. You can easily opt for a combined device and get the benefits of both units.
Why should you buy a separate modem and router?
Modern-day routers come with an in-built modem, which eliminates the need to buy both devices separately. But there are many advantages of buying a modem and router separately. First of all, it gives you a lot of flexibility, especially when you want to upgrade your home network to get a faster speed. Not just that, but it also gives you more features.
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