Modem vs Router
Modems and routers are both important for your home or business internet connection, but what do they do?
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You might’ve heard the terms ‘modem’ and ‘router’ before when it comes to internet plans, but you may not know the difference between them. While these two devices are essential for getting your home or office online, they serve distinct roles in the process.
In Savvy’s handy guide, we'll help demystify the modem vs router debate, explaining their functions, how they work and which one might be the right choice for your specific internet needs. Learn more about them right here with us today!
What are the differences between modems and routers?
Modems and routers are two distinct devices that serve critical roles in getting your internet plan up and running. Here's a breakdown of their differences:
Function
- Modem: a modem is responsible for modulating and demodulating data signals. It's the gateway between your local network and your internet service provider (ISP). Modems translate the digital data from your devices into signals that can travel over your ISP's network and vice versa.
- Router: a router, on the other hand, manages data traffic between devices within your local network. It acts as a central hub, directing data packets between your various devices and ensuring they reach their intended destinations efficiently.
Physical connection
- Modem: modems typically have one or more ports for connecting to your ISP's network via a coaxial cable, fibre optic cable or other means. They don't usually have multiple ports for connecting multiple devices.
- Router: routers have multiple ports and sometimes Wi-Fi capabilities for connecting several devices within your home or office network. They create a local area network (LAN) to facilitate communication among your devices.
IP address
- Modem: modems often have a single public IP address assigned by your ISP. This IP address is visible on the internet and serves as the entry point for data to and from your network.
- Router: routers assign local IP addresses to devices on your network. These private IP addresses enable devices to communicate with each other while sharing the modem's single public IP address to access the internet.
Security
- Modem: modems typically don't provide robust security features. Their primary role is data translation and transmission.
- Router: routers often include security features like firewalls and port forwarding to protect your local network from potential external threats.
In summary, modems and routers have distinct functions: modems connect you to your ISP and the internet, while routers manage data traffic within your local network. Both are essential for a complete and functional internet setup.
How do I find out if I need a modem or a router for my NBN connection?
Whether you need a modem or router (or both) will ultimately depend on the nature of your connection. For example, different NBN connection types require different configurations. These include:
- Fibre to the Premises (FTTP): because your NBN connection box effectively acts as a modem itself, you’ll only need a router for your setup.
- Fibre to the Node (FTTN): you’ll need a modem router for FTTN connections, which enables you to send and receive data as well as distribute it.
- Fibre to the Curb (FTTC): like FTTP, you’ll likely only need a router to establish a FTTC connection for the NBN.
- Fibre to the Building (FTTB): the requirements for FTTB connections are essentially the same as those for FTTN, meaning you’ll need a compatible modem router.
- Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC): HFC connections typically only require a router to hook you up to the internet at your home or office.
- Fixed Wireless: you’ll need a router to connect you to the box provided by your ISP or NBN Co.
- Satellite: like Fixed Wireless, a router will be enough to link to your satellite modem.
Will my NBN plan come with a router or modem included?
Almost all NBN plans come with either a modem, router or modem router included as part of the deal. This is sometimes offered for free, though this may be conditional on you remaining signed up to your plan for a certain period, such as 12 to 24 months.
However, in some cases, you may be able to use an existing modem or router from a previous plan, provided it’s compatible with your new provider and plan. If you’re charged for your modem, this may end up being a more cost-effective way to establish your new internet connection.
However, it’s important to note that some providers may charge activation fees if you BYO modem, so it’s important to consider which option is best for your needs and budget.
More common questions about modems vs routers
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