Modem vs Router How They're Different and What They Do
0Modem vs. Router How They're Different and What They Do.
When it's time to set up a home Wi-Fi network, it's important to know exactly what kind of equipment you need. Everything starts with two pieces of gear: a modem that brings internet into your house and a router that directs that internet connection to all the computers, tablets, mobile phones and other connected devices you have on hand. The two devices work together to fill your house with cat videos, Snapchats and all the other things that make the web so wonderful.
Credit: Shutterstock/Casezy idea Here's a quick rundown of both types of networking gear, including what to look for and why you're usually better off opting for a separate modem and router instead of a hybrid device.
To bring the internet into your home, you're going to need a modem.
This is a small device that connects to your internet service provider (ISP) to tap into all that internet goodness. The connection is made via a cable (for cable or fiber internet) or phone line (DSL) from outside your house that plugs into the back of your modem. Your modem shares this connection with a computer or a router via an Ethernet cable.