A modem is a device that connects to your Internet service provider (ISP) and allows you to access the Internet. Modems work together with routers to provide Internet access to devices in your home.
Modems convert the Internet signal delivered by your ISP into an Ethernet connection that you can use to access the Internet. Unless you only want to connect a single device to the Internet with a wired Ethernet connection, you also need a router to share the Internet connection with multiple devices. Routers also provide a firewall to create a layer of security between your home network and the Internet. For more information about routers, see What’s a router?
Various types of modems exist. The type of modem you use depends on the type of Internet connection you have:
- Cable modems, which use a coaxial cable connection to provide high-speed Internet, are the most common. Cable modems typically support more bandwidth than other types of modems, so they can deliver the fastest available Internet speeds.
- DSL modems, which use a phone cable connection to provide high-speed Internet, are declining in use but still relatively common. DSL modems typically do not support as much bandwidth as cable modems but are much faster than dial-up modems.
- Dial-up modems, which use a phone cable connection to provide dial-up Internet, were very common in the 1990’s and early 2000’s but are rarely used today. Dial-up modems support very little bandwidth but might still be used in areas where there are no other Internet service options.
NETGEAR routers and mesh WiFi systems require a cable or DSL modem connection. You might rent a modem from your ISP, but you can often save money long-term and access higher speeds by purchasing your own modem. NETGEAR cable modems provide the best internet speeds and compatibility with major internet service providers without having to pay monthly fees.
If you don’t want to set up a separate modem and router, you might want to consider a modem router, also known as a gateway. NETGEAR cable modem routers combine modem and router functionality into a single device that optimizes Internet speeds and WiFi performance while helping you save on equipment rental fees.
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Last Updated:03/22/2022
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Article ID: 31114