What’s the Difference Between a Modem and a Router?

Modem vs Router: Are They the Same Thing?

Most people use the terms modem and router interchangeably. Many people think that they are both the same thing. It’s quite easy to get the two mixed up  - they both look similar, are rectangular boxes with blinking lights and somehow connect us to the internet.

In fact, routers and modems are not the same. They both use different technologies and work differently. So you might ask - what is the difference between a modem and a router?

What is a Modem?

A modem (modulator-demodulator) is a networking device that communicates with the internet through a broadband connection that’s provided by your internet service provider (ISP) - Afrihost, Axxess, Mweb, RSAweb etc.

Depending on the type of internet you have (ADSL, satellite, or fiber optic internet) will determine if your modem will use telephone lines or fibre optic cable to connect to the internet. Modems are used to convert signals into the appropriate language needed for information to travel through a telephone line or fibre optic cable.

How Does a Modem Work?

Modems will differ based on the type of internet technology. There are three types of modems:

• Fibre: Fibre use fibre optic cable to connect to the internet. Information is sent via fibre optic cable made of glass. Fibre optic cable runs to a fibre modem and then usually connects to a wifi router.
• ADSL (Digital Subscriber Line): DSL modems use phone lines to connect to the internet. One end of the phone cable will connect to the phone port on the wall, and the other end will connect to the DSL port on the back of the modem. With DSL, you can talk on the phone and access the internet at the same time.
• Dial-Up: Dial-Up modems also use phone lines to access the internet. Compared to the other modems, they are slower in speed. Unfortunately, with Dial-Up, you are unable to access the internet when the phone is being used.

A modem will either be connected to a phone or Fibre network to tap into the internet. The above mentioned technologies use different languages to send and receive information. Computer information is processed through digital signals. On the other hand, phone lines use analog waves.

The modem acts as a translator when sending and receiving information. When a file is being sent out, the modem will modulate (code) the information into analog waves to push the file through the phone lines. Once the analog waves reach their destination, they will be met with another modem who will demodulate (decode) the file back to digital signals. Thus, the file will be displayed on the receiving computer screen.

Devices that have an ethernet port (laptops, desktops, and smart TVs) can use ethernet cables to connect to the modem for internet access. Wireless devices, such as tablets and smartphones, will not be able to access the internet directly through a modem. These devices need to connect to a WiFi Router that shares the internet connection wirelessly.

What is a Router?

Routers are commonly known as the device that gives you WiFi.

A router is a small box that helps “route” traffic between the connected devices (wired or wireless) in your local area network (LAN) and the internet. They manage all of the incoming and outgoing information and direct it to the correct location.

In addition, they facilitate a line of communication between all of the connected devices in your home. For example, if you have a computer and a printer connected to the router, you could print a file without having to physically connect to the printer.

Do I Need a Modem and a Router?

If you don’t need WiFi and are just planning to wire one device, a modem will work just fine. On the other hand, if you want to wirelessly connect multiple devices, a modem and a wireless router will be needed. The modem decodes and codes the information being sent and received through the phone or fibre optic lines. The router will provide you with a wireless network and implement additional safety features.

Some people don’t like having two separate devices for their home network. Modem and router combos (also known as wireless gateways) are 2-in-1 devices that have the technology to perform both functions.

Modems, routers, or wireless gateways can be rented from your ISP for a monthly fee when you sign up for an internet plan. Or, they can be purchased from Incredible Connection, Makro, Takealot etc. Purchasing your own modem, router, or wireless gateway can be cheaper in the long run and can save you money on your internet bill.

Bolton Technical will soon be launching the InHand Networks Routers in South Africa.

What is a Wireless Gateway?

Wireless gateways are a combination of a modem and a router; both technologies are incorporated into one device. Rather than having two devices with different jobs, you can have one that achieves the same results.

How Does a Wireless Gateway Work?

Similar to the modem, the wireless gateway will be connected to your ISP through a phone or fibre optic cable. It will be able to code the digital signals into analog signals when sending information and decode information when receiving it. The router will establish a wireless connection for your devices.The main benefit of a wireless gateway is the simplicity of only needing to set up one device.

Modem Router Combo vs Separate: Which is Better?

Each option has its pros and cons:

• Price: Wireless gateways are slightly cheaper to buy because only one device is being purchased. For separate units, you would have to purchase two devices. If you rent the devices, the rental fee might vary by ISPs.
• Set-Up Process: Wireless gateways are easier to set up and they take up less space. You have one less device and fewer wires to worry about.
• Upgrading: Having separate units can be easier and cheaper to upgrade. When new router technology is released, you will only need to upgrade the router without having to upgrade the modem as well. However, to upgrade a wireless gateway, you would have to replace the whole device which can be more expensive than a standalone modem or router. If you are renting, your ISP can replace the devices.
• Control: Stand-alone units tend to have more features and customisation options, such as parental controls, device management, usage statistics, and more. When renting a wireless gateway, the customisation options can be limited.

Choosing a wireless gateway or separate units is a personal preference. Wireless gateways tend to be better for basic internet users. A separate modem and router give you the freedom to customise the settings, firmware, and take advantage of all the features available.

Mesh Networks: The Newest Internet Solution

Mesh networks are similar to WiFi routers, but they work differently. Traditional routers consist of one unit broadcasting sound waves. The waves weaken the farther they travel. Weakened signal results in slower internet speeds and connectivity issues. Mesh networking is designed to solve those problems and provide you with high-speed wireless signal throughout your entire home.

Mesh kits consist of 2-3 nodes. The nodes will work together to extend the WiFi range. One node will be physically connected to the modem for internet access; it will be taking on the role of the router. The remaining nodes will be stationed around your home. The main node will wirelessly share its internet connection with the nodes within its range. Those nodes will then share their internet connection with the nodes within their range. Now, instead of only using one unit to broadcast the internet signal, you have multiple units broadcasting internet signal to provide you with the best home WiFi coverage.

Unlike traditional WiFi extenders, mesh systems create one large seamless wireless network. As you roam around your home, your mobile devices will automatically connect to the node that is closest to it.

Contact Us

Bolton Technical is a leading provider of signal booster solutions for homes, vehicles, and commercial buildings in South Africa. They specialise in consumer-friendly kits as well as customised RF systems for cellular, public safety two-way radio, DAS, and WiFi.

We’re here to assist with any issues you might be experiencing with poor cell service. Contact us today, or call us on 011 749 3085