How to Buy a Broadband Modem

A broadband modem is a device used for broadband Internet access (DSL or cable) for single PCs. Assess the features of a broadband modem and its compatibility with your Internet service as well as your computer before buying one. Here's how:

Things You'll Need

• Internet access for online shopping
• Computer

Instructions

Choose a Vendor

1. Discover whether your Internet service provider sells broadband modems. Buying from the ISP is ideal because you can easily check its compatibility with your computer.

2. If your ISP does not sell broadband modems, buy one online or from a bricks-and-mortar retail store. Ensure the modem you buy suits your broadband Internet connection.

3. Refer to online buyers' guides to learn about various broadband modems' features and pricing. Buyers' guides let you compare prices among brands, search for promotions, assess vendors and explore online buying options. Popular online buyers' guides include MySimon, Epinions and NexTag (see links below).

4. Find suitable vendors online using search engines like Yahoo! or Google. Usually, online vendors sell at lower prices than offline retail stores. Browse through popular online retail stores such as CompUSA, BestBuy and CircuitCity (see links below).

Choose a Modem

1. Basic broadband modems are external or internal, wired or wireless. Determine which type you need.

2. Consider the modem's compatibility with your broadband Internet service. For instance, DSL connections are categorized as ADSL (asymmetrical digital subscriber line), HDSL (high data rate), SDSL (symmetrical digital subscriber line) or VDSL (very high data rate). The other types of broadband service are ISDN (integrated service digital network) and cable. Each requires a specific type of broadband modem. To choose the appropriate modem, you must know which Internet service you use.

3. Identify the type of interface you have chosen for your computer: internal, external or external USB. Internal modems are connected to the PCI or ISA slots of your computer. External modem interfaces include PS/2 (or serial port), PCMCIA and USB ports. USB modems provide more flexibility than serial or PCMCIA modems and thus are preferable.

4. Study the types of wired and wireless modems on the market. For example, wireless broadband modems incorporate 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g technologies, also known as wi-fi connections. You also can choose a Bluetooth-enabled broadband modem. However, wi-fi modems are recommended.

5. Consider price. Usually, the price of a broadband modem increases with its data transmission speed and features. Select a broadband modem that has integrated security features.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider leasing a broadband modem from your ISP if you don't want to buy one.

• Browse through auction sites such as eBay (see link below). Compare the purchase deals available online.