Router or Modem – What’s the difference?

Routers and modems are “hardware” – They are individual devices with very distinct and separate functions.

A ROUTER is not really essential for internet communication. It is still possible to connect to the internet without routers just like in the old days with internal PCI modems. But you should remember that the main job of the router is to protect you from possible threats and malware, and this shouldn’t be taken very lightly

A MODEM, is the device (or piece of hardware) that allows us to connect our computers – either wired or wirelessly – to the internet. Typically, the modem you use will be provided by your internet provider – you can purchase your own, but be sure that the model you choose will work with the connection from your internet provider (telecommunication company, cable company or satellite provider) before making the purchase. Without a modem, you cannot connect to the internet.

More and more often today, you can purchase combined router/modems so that you don’t have to have 2 separate devices in your work area, such as wi-fi modems that are equipped with routing capabilities which can be wireless or wired or both. There’s no question that in the future, there will be no practical need for cables anymore and all wi-fi modems will also have wifi router functions.