Router vs. Modem — What's the Difference?

A device that routes data packets between multiple devices on a network.

A device converting ISP signals to a computer-compatible format.

A network device that prioritizes bandwidth for various applications.

Equipment required for connecting to internet services.

Hardware providing firewall security to protect the network.

Technology bridging analog and digital communications.

An appliance that lets devices on a local network communicate seamlessly.

A device with protocols matching the ISP's infrastructure.

Equipment managing both wired and wireless connections.

Network equipment converting signals to IP packets.

A power tool with a shaped cutter, used in carpentry for making grooves for joints, decorative mouldings, etc.

A modulator-demodulator, or simply a modem, is a hardware device that converts data from a digital format, intended for communication directly between devices with specialized wiring, into one suitable for a transmission medium such as telephone lines or radio. A modem modulates one or more carrier wave signals to encode digital information for transmission, and demodulates signals to decode the transmitted information.

A device which forwards data packets to the appropriate parts of a computer network.

A device that transmits and receives data using a modulated carrier wave. Modems are used to establish network and internet connections.

One that routs, especially a machine tool that mills out the surface of metal or wood.

A device that encodes digital computer signals into analog/analogue telephone signals and vice versa and allows computers to communicate over a phone line.

One that routes, especially one who prepares shipments for distribution and delivery.

To transmit by modem.

A device in a network that handles message transfers between computers.

An electronic device that converts electronic signals into sound waves, and sound waves into electronic signals, used to transmit information between computers by the use of ordinary telephone lines; also called modulator-demodulator; as, the latest modems can transmit data at 56,000 baud over a clear telephone line. The speed of transmission of information by a modem is usually measured in units of baud, equivalent to bits per second.

See gateway.

(from a combination of MOdulate and DEModulate) electronic equipment consisting of a device used to connect computers by a telephone line

Someone who routes or directs items from one location to another.

(telecommunications) Any device that directs packets of information using the equivalent of Open Systems Interconnection layer 3 (network layer) information. Most commonly used in reference to Internet Protocol routers.

(Internet) A device that connects local area networks to form a larger internet by, at minimum, selectively passing those datagrams having a destination IP address to the network which is able to deliver them to their destination; a network gateway.

In integrated circuit or printed circuit board design, an algorithm for adding all wires needed to properly connect all of the placed components while obeying all design rules.

A power tool used in carpentry for cutting grooves.

A plane made like a spokeshave, for working the inside edges of circular sashes.

A plane with a hooked tool protruding far below the sole, for smoothing the bottom of a cavity.

To hollow out or cut using a router power tool.

A plane made like a spokeshave, for working the inside edges of circular sashes.

A machine with a rapidly revolving vertical spindle and cutter for scooping out the surface of wood or metal, as between and around the engraved parts of an electrotype.

A worker who routes shipments for distribution and delivery

(computer science) a device that forwards data packets between computer networks

A power tool with a shaped cutter; used in carpentry for cutting grooves

Some routers include an integrated modem, known as a gateway, but not all do.

No, modems must be compatible with the specific type of connection used by your ISP.

A router can function without a modem but won't provide internet access without it.

A separate setup allows more flexibility and potential performance gains but requires more space.

Look for Wi-Fi compatibility, security features, and multiple Ethernet ports for wired connections.

Typically not. Modems are often locked to specific ISPs and may require reconfiguration or replacement.

Yes, both typically require configuration. The modem needs to connect to the ISP, while the router is set up for internal network management.

Combo devices are convenient and often reliable for home use but may lack the performance or features of dedicated devices.

Buying can save money in the long run and allow you to choose better-performing models, while renting can offer customer support from the ISP.

Yes, many routers include firewall security and parental controls to protect against malware and unauthorized access.

The primary function of a modem is to convert signals from your ISP into a digital format that your devices or router can use to access the internet.

If devices on your local network can communicate but have no internet access, the modem might be the issue. If devices can't communicate at all, the problem might lie with the router.

Resetting the modem or router can restore internet connectivity by re-establishing the network connection but may erase any custom settings.

Yes, modems can also require firmware updates, which can improve performance and security.

Routers can prioritize bandwidth using Quality of Service (QoS) settings to ensure important activities get more speed.