Modem and Router vs Modem Only: Understanding the Difference

When it comes to setting up your home network, one common question arises - what's the difference between a modem and a router? In this article, we'll explore the roles of both devices and how they work together to provide you with an internet connection.

A modem is used solely for connecting to the internet. It's responsible for establishing a connection to your internet service provider (ISP) over a wide area network (WAN). This allows you to access the internet from multiple devices within your home. In contrast, a router connects devices by creating a local area network (LAN) and assigns various local IP addresses for communication.

While a modem is necessary to connect to the internet, a router is essential for creating your local network within the home. Without a router, each device would need to be connected directly to the modem using an Ethernet cable, which can be inconvenient and impractical.

One key difference between a modem and a router is their role when it comes to connecting you to the internet. A modem connects to the internet over a WAN, while a router connects devices by creating a LAN. This means that a modem can still connect to the internet even without a router, but a router cannot function without a modem.

In some cases, you may need to set up your modem and router separately. For example, if you're using an EE Smart Router with FTTP (Fiber-to-the-Premises) connection, you'll need to disconnect the Ethernet cable from the back of the Smart Router and power down before setting it up as a new router.

On the other hand, if you're using a third-party router, you may need to connect it directly to the Openreach modem. This can be done by plugging in the Ethernet cable into the modem's WAN port and the other end into the router's LAN port.

In conclusion, modems and routers are two separate devices that work together to provide you with an internet connection. A modem is responsible for connecting to the internet over a WAN, while a router connects devices by creating a LAN and assigns various local IP addresses. Understanding the difference between these two devices can help you set up your home network more efficiently and effectively.

Modem and router vs modem only