What is the difference between router and modem? Are you interested to know the difference between both the terms? We will help you to understand these top level Internet items so that you will use them according your work and requirement.
Router and modem both look similar but their functions are very different. These both terms are very common in the world of broadband. Routers and modems are popular computer peripherals for the users. A router is essential to direct the path to the traffic of data packets on the network whereas modem is necessary for connecting your computer network to the Internet.
This was just to introduce with the topic now let’s take a look on the definitions of both the terms individually. Let’s start!!
Router
A router connects multiple networks and routes network traffic between them. Router sends and receives networking traffic from the modem with one connection, and routes all that data through its four Ethernet ports, and through the air via the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Routers come in many variants such as size, color etc.
They can include two external antennas or more, depending on the model. The more antennas they have protruding in the air like a dead spider’s legs, the higher the prices will soar. Extra antennas cost more but the speed depends on proximity to the router.
Modem
A modem is a very popular device used mainly for personal use. Modem is a physical connector for the coaxial cable installed in your home. That cable typically exits the home through a hole, and is tunneled around and/or underneath the house until it reaches the Cable Distribution Box mounted on your home’s exterior.
The modem encodes and decodes data so that it can pass between your home network and your Internet Service Provider. Modem is a bridge between local network and internet.
These are two of the most common computer peripherals, yet many people don’t know the function of each one. Now let’s take a look on the differences between Router and Modem
Function
The modem brings the information in, and the router distributes it to different devices like computers and phones.
Ports
Modem needs 2 ports, one for connection to ISP and next one to connect with router. Router needs 2 or more ports for the connection.
Device Type
Modem is inter-networking device while router is a networking device.
Security
Modem does not need security measures but router need to be secured to protect network.
Necessity for Internet Connection
Modem is necessary for Internet connection but router is basically to distribute the network.