#Modem vs router spectrum software#
#Modem vs router spectrum Pc#

A modem connected to your Internet Service provider and to a Mac or PC is what makes it possible for you to go online.So remember this simple distinction between a modem and router: These protocols allow you to send emails and information back and forth through your modem and router–and your IP address helps directs the data YOU requested to YOUR computer and not to someone else’s.

#Modem vs router spectrum software#

In simple terms, the networking software in your computer follows guidelines (Internet protocols) that connect you to the Internet. The answer? It is at the heart of it all. You might be wondering what role your IP address plays in all of this. That information comes with the router.) How technical does get it?Īll this Internet cable/modem/router/computer connection stuff takes a little bit of jiggering and figuring–but it’s not too difficult (your cable company can offer help) and the rewards in Internet convenience, speed and safety are worthwhile. (Make a note: you just need to make sure your wireless network is secure. In fact, it’s harder to target any specific computer linked to the router.Ī wireless router allows you to connect your Internet connection at home with any wireless device, such as a laptop, smartphone or iPad. Just by doing that, it automatically makes it hard for hackers to now get at your computer. In order to do this, the router monkeys with and modifies the IP address on your computer(s). It can take the digital signal from your modem (which the modem gets from the cable company’s cable) and share it with (route it to) other computers in the house. With a few wires and connections and installing some software, you’re modem, router, and computer get connected.Ī router does two special things by leeching on to your modem. And make no doubt, there’s plenty of that out there.Įnter the router, a good companion for your modem, your computer, and you. You’ll need to rely on special computer software (anti-virus programs, etc.) to fight of bad stuff coming in from online (computer viruses and such). So with just a modem, your computer is at risk. Also, one modem connects to only one computer. They can’t do much when it comes to providing Internet safety, like keeping hackers away. Modems are useful, but they are not smart pieces of hardware. You could go online using just your modem and computer, but there’s a reason to think twice. You NEED that modem between the cable and your computer. In case you’re wondering, you can’t simply plug that cable from your Internet Service Provider directly into your computer. A different wire that goes from your modem to your computer delivers your Internet requests and activity to your computer and monitor. The modem connects to a cable/wire from the outside, bringing in Internet data (email, YouTube videos, Google search results, files) from all over the world. Here’s the answer, simplified and deliberately non-technical, explaining the difference between a modem and a router and why you need one of them, and should have the other. Right?Īlthough they’re working hand in hand to get you connected to your favorite websites, they’re doing totally separate jobs.

They’re kind of like salt and pepper to us–different, but more or less the same. (Or at least your friends and family.)īut for a lot of us, we’d be hard-pressed to explain the difference between the two to anyone. You know that one’s called a modem, the other is called a router, and they’re both involved with getting you on the Internet and connecting you to the world.

They both have something to do with going online.

They both have flashing lights to indicate they’re doing their job.

They have plugs and jacks on the back that look exactly alike.

With a quick glance, you might even think they’re two of a kind. They look alike, these two small pieces of plastic hardware that sit on the desks of most homes.