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modem_vs_router
Modem
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Function: A modem connects your home network to the internet through your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It translates digital signals from your ISP into a format that your devices can use (and vice versa) by modulating and demodulating signals.
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IP Address: Each modem has a public IP address that identifies it on the internet.
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Network Type: Operates on a Wide Area Network (WAN) level, facilitating the connection between your local network and the broader internet.
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Physical Connections: Typically has one Ethernet port for connecting to a router or a single device directly[
1
](https://www.xfinity.com/hub/internet/modem-vs-router)[
2
](https://www.spiceworks.com/tech/networking/articles/modem-vs-router/)[
4
](https://us.hitrontech.com/learn/the-difference-between-a-modem-and-a-router/).
Router
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Function: A router creates a local area network (LAN) within your home. It connects multiple devices (like computers, smartphones, and smart TVs) to the internet through the modem, allowing them to communicate with each other.
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IP Address: Assigns private IP addresses to each device on the local network, enabling internal communication without exposing them directly to the internet.
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Network Type: Manages traffic within a LAN, ensuring that data packets are directed correctly between devices and the internet.
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Physical Connections: Usually has multiple Ethernet ports for wired connections and may provide Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity[
1
](https://www.xfinity.com/hub/internet/modem-vs-router)[
3
](https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/modem-vs-router)[
5
](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/modem-vs-router/).
Summary of Differences
| Feature | Modem | Router |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Connects to ISP and provides internet access | Connects devices within a local network |
| IP Address Type | Public IP address | Private IP addresses for local devices |
| Network Type | WAN | LAN |
| Connections | Fewer Ethernet ports | Multiple Ethernet ports and Wi-Fi |
Combined Devices
Some modern devices combine both functions into a single unit, often referred to as a gateway. These devices simplify setup by integrating both modem and router capabilities, but understanding their individual roles remains important for troubleshooting and optimizing network performance