Cable Modem Vs. Wireless Router

There is no reason to make a comparison between a cable modem and a router, as they are parts serving different purposes in an Internet network. However, the deliberate comparison made here serves the purpose of explaining the working of these two devices that complement each other. In this article I compare the function and set up of these two devices which are used in most wireless networking setups around the world.

Cable Modem Vs. Wireless Router: Function

Modem is short for 'Modulator- Demodulator'. It decodes analog carrier signals into digital ones and converts digital ones back to analog. Modem makes the transmission of digital data over media like telephone or cable lines possible. A cable modem serves the purpose of connecting your computer to cable Internet service. Many cable TV companies also provide Internet access and the contact to this internet connection is made through the modem. If you are thinking of putting up an Internet connection, then browse through the best cable model product reviews before deciding. You could also have a DSL modem which makes the Internet connection through the telephone line.

Wireless routers perform the function of distributing data received from the modem to various terminals through radio frequency linking. While the cable modem is the primary receiver and sender of data to the Internet, the router serves the function of distributing that data over a wireless network. It essentially routs data to multiple computer terminals and is the main component of any wireless Internet network. It functions something like the receiver of a cordless phone. Only, instead of voice data, it transmits and receives modulated digital data on radio frequency carriers. Some of the best routers can connect and handle more than 50 users at a time. So in conclusion, to put it a bit crudely, the modem is the main supply line of Internet connection while the router is the distributor of the data bits over air (through radio link), giving you an unplugged Internet experience.

Setup

If you want to set up a Wi-Fi Internet connection in your house, then two things to know are cable modem set up and wireless router setup. The set up of a modem is quite straightforward. It involves three or four wire connections It generally has three connection to be made. One is the power connection which serves the electrical power required for functioning, the second is the cable Internet connection or DSL connection coming from the Internet company and the third is its connection with the router. In case you are not using a router, the modem is directly connected with the appropriate computer port. Cable modem problems are generally easily resolved by reconfiguring them and they are quite maintenance free.

A wireless router setup involves two main connections. First is the incoming line from the cable/DSL modem and second the power cord connection. Once the hardware connections of the modem and router is made. The last part is configuring the modem and the router and establishing its wireless connection with your computer (which has to be fitted with a Wi-Fi card). In the configuration part of this installation, you will have to temporarily connect it with your computer, run the installation disc, configure and then remove it. To configure a router you will have to temporary make a connection Nowadays you also get a combination of cable/DSL modem along with router built into one device. This kind of cable modem plus router can do both jobs and reduce the hassle of handling the setups of two devices at a time. Router problems are mostly related to limited range of access and low signal strength. The range problems can usually be solved using antenna boosters, that improve signal quality and range. Go for a modem router combo if possible as it will simplify your setup and maintenance job.