Wireless Router Vs. Cable Modems

Wireless routers broadcast Internet signal using radio waves.

Wireless routers and broadband modems are the main components of a modern home computer network. Most home computer users have both a DSL or cable modem and a wireless router because they serve different purposes. The modem facilitates a connection to the Internet, while the wireless router lets computers connect to the modem and each other without the need for Ethernet cables.

Cable Modems

A cable modem is a device that allows your computer to connect to the Internet. Cable modems are made specifically for use with cable Internet connections and do not work with DSL or dial-up service. Your local cable television provider provides your cable Internet service.

Modem Connections

Cable modems have three major cords that plug into them. The first is the power cord, which gives your modem power to run. The second is a coaxial cable cord. This cord is round with a wired prong on the end. It would normally plug into the back of your television, if you were using it to get cable TV. This cord screws into the back of your cable modem. Your cable modem then converts the coaxial signal to a usable format for your computer. The third connection is an Ethernet cable, which runs from the back of your cable modem directly into your computer or router. This cable allows your computer to use the modem to connect to the Internet. Some cables modems have the option to connect them to the computer via USB.

Wireless Routers

Wireless routers act as a distribution hub for your network. After the cable modem is connected to the wireless router, the router distributes the cable modem output into multiple ports. You may have noticed that the back of your cable modem only has one Ethernet port, meaning that you can only connect one computer. The wireless router allows you to connect several computers via Ethernet connection and more via Wi-Fi.

Wi-Fi

The second purpose of your wireless router is to broadcast your cable modem's Internet signals wirelessly. After you connect your cable modem to your router, the router translates the cable television connection into a 802.11 wireless connection, called Wi-Fi. Wireless routers use two main cords. The first is the power cord, which connects to an electrical outlet and powers the router. The second is an Ethernet cord, which runs from your router to the Ethernet port on your cable modem.

Cable Modem Wireless Router Combos

Most DSL companies and some cable companies offer a modem and wireless router combo. This is one device that acts as both the modem and the router. This device typically connects using three cords. The first cord is the power cord, which powers the device. The second cord is either the coaxial cable -- used to connect cable Internet service -- or a telephone line -- used to connect DSL Internet service. The last cord is an Ethernet cord, which connects the device to your computer. This all-in-one cable modem and wireless router combo does everything that a cable modem and wireless router do.

References

• Network World: Wireless Router Basics
• PC Mag: Definition of Cable Modem
• The Linux Information Project: Cable Modem Definition