A modem is a device that connects you to the internet whereas, a Wi-Fi router helps in distributing the connection to your laptop, PC, mobiles, and various other devices in your home or workspace. A router routes the data between multiple devices. Both Wi-Fi router and modem devices are different in operations and help in setting up an effective network connection. Modems are mainly responsible for fetching the signals from your internet service provider. It is important to know how these devices work before installation.
How Does WiFi Router and Modem Work?
A modem converts analog signals into digital signals and connects your network to the Internet. Your ISP provides you with a modem. The term comprises two words, ‘modulation’ and ‘demodulation’. It modulates and demodulates the network between your ISP and devices. Costing approximately $60, modems can be used in combination with routers too.
The modem connects to the router by the WAN port, while it connects to the other devices wirelessly. Ranging from $100 to $200, Wi-Fi routers improve the speed of the internet provided to you. You might require repeaters too if you have a larger space. Repeaters help in distributing the internet network evenly around a larger space. They are in turn, connected to the main router.
The NETGEAR Orbi Built-in-Modem is a whole home mesh wifi system that you can use for up to 4,000 sq. feet of area. It has got excellent reviews for its high speed of up to 2.2 Gbps.
Where to Use Wifi Routers and Modems?
You can go with one modem like the top-selling Motorola MG7550 16×4 Cable Modem if your requirement is just to connect your PC to the internet. This saves money too. If you’re looking to connect multiple devices, consider going for a Wi-Fi Router. It’ll help you to efficiently use your internet connection despite interferences.
How to Connect Different Devices to Wi-Fi Router?
How to Connect Printer to Wi-Fi Router?
- Ensure that your Wi-Fi Router and printer are well in position and in the same range for a smooth and interference-free connection.
- Switch on your printer and connect it to the wi-fi network by putting in your SSID and password. This will ensure that your printer connects to Wi-Fi.
- Connect the devices to the internet and sync them with the printer for printing wirelessly.
How to Connect Laptop to Wi-Fi Router?
- Open your default IP address in the browser.
- When prompted, key in your username and password.
- Pick a name or SSID for your router for future uses.
- Choose the security which might range from WEP to WPA2.
- Consequently, your laptop will now get connected to your Wi-Fi Router.
How to Connect PlayStation or Xbox to a Wi-Fi Router?
- For a PlayStation or Xbox, open the home menu on it.
- Go to settings and select the Network option.
- Choose Set Up Internet Connection.
- Select Use Wi-Fi
- You’ll find a list of all the surrounding networks. Choose your SSID name from there. Enter the Wi-Fi password to connect.
What is the Difference Between a Wifi router and a Modem?
Wifi routers and modems are important gadgets to get an uninterrupted internet connection, but both these gadgets have different roles. A modem is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to fetch internet with a public IP address. The router is used to route the path of internet supply to your local devices in the local area network (LAN).
Routers use private IP addresses but they take internet from the modem. You can not use routers without modems. You will need a router with a modem when you want to connect multiple devices to the internet. Read through our blog to know more about the difference between modem vs router.
Do I Need a Wifi Modem if I Have a Router?
The answer is Yes. The router takes the internet supply from the modem and then distributes it further. Both routers and modems have ethernet ports, but you can’t connect routers directly to your ISP connection. You will require a modem that can act as an interface between your router and ISP. Some router models let you transfer files in LAN via wifi but you will still not be able to access the internet without a modem.
Reviews of Speedefy AC2100 Smart WiFi Router show that this model has 4 ethernet ports and can offer you the wifi speed of AC2100.
Does Wifi Come From Modem or Router?
The wifi comes from the router and the modem is responsible for bringing internet from ISP. The market today also has many wifi-modem-router combos that are single devices with the functionality of both modem and routers. Modem like ARRIS SURFboard SB6121 passes the internet to the router, which then distributes the internet wirelessly to other LAN devices.
The NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router has got good reviews because of its USB, ethernet, and wifi connectivity. This combo device offers up to 1800 square feet of wireless coverage.
Conclusion
Going with routers requires proper maintenance. It’s advisable to place it in the center if you buy a Wi-Fi router. A well-planned position can connect all your devices easily. Make sure you keep your router in the open to avoid any obstructions. It’s also important to replace your modems and routers periodically. You should update the firmware periodically to avoid a breach of security. A simple reboot might solve all problems if your setup keeps on disconnecting from the internet. Read our blog to get wi-fi router troubleshooting tips.
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