A router is the small box that allows more than one computer to work off of the same, shared network, such as all of the computers being used in one company.

Modern routers are typically wireless. They often have one or two movable antennas on their sides. Wireless routers allow multiple computers and other devices, such as Smart phones and tablets, to join the same network.

The router provides access to a local network and you need the router to connect to the internet in order to get internet service.

The modem connects to your Internet Service Provider also known as the ISP which typically provides cable or DSL Internet service, that is also known as a Digital Subscriber Line.

Cable modems have a coaxial also known as a “coax” connection, which is the same type of connector found on a TV or cable box. This connects to a cable port on the wall. DSL modems have a telephone connector, also called an RJ-11 jack, which connects to a telephone socket on the wall.

DSL service remains the most popular internet service, since it has the highest speed capacity. Speed is the name of the game when you’re online. There is nothing worse than slow internet speed when you’re trying to get work done online. If you’re old enough to remember using dial up service, you were part of the  “olden” days of the internet. It was beginning to be widely popular, but using dial up–which is all that was offered then–tested our patience and slowed things down. Now it’s all about the speed, and that’s what makes DSL service the favorite among most people using the internet.

By connecting your modem to your router rather than directly to a computer, all devices connected to the router can access the modem, and therefore, the internet. The router provides a local Internet Provider (IP) address, to each connected device, but they will all have the same external IP address, which is assigned by your ISP.

While the router and modem are usually separate entities, in some cases, the modem and router may be combined into a single device. This type of unique device is sometimes offered by ISPs to simplify the setup process.

For your entire computer networking needs call or contact Alpha Engineering Associates at 410-295-9500.