What is the difference between a router and a modem? When should you use a switch, and what on earth is PoE? The world of network and internet devices can seem complicated, but with this guide, you’ll get a clear understanding of the most common network products found in most homes, offices, and IT environments.
This article provides a concise overview of key network devices – deeper dives will follow in later publications if needed.
What is a modem?
A modem (short for modulator-demodulator) converts the internet signal into a format that a home network can use. A 4G modem converts mobile data into a signal usable via an Ethernet cable, while an ADSL modem converts the signal coming through a phone line into a signal usable via a network cable.
Modern modems also route, meaning they have all the same functionalities as a router. The only difference is that the routed port is not a network cable, but for example, a 4G connection. This is why many people use "router" and "modem" interchangeably, and these terms may be used synonymously in online stores.
Modem types include:
- Cable modems
- ADSL and VDSL modems
- Fiber optic converters (see fiber optic products here)
- 4G/5G modems (you can find these from us here!)
More information: Modem – Wikipedia
What does a router do?
A router shares the internet connection with multiple devices and creates a home or office local area network (LAN). It manages IP addresses and serves as a connection point for both wired and wireless (WiFi) devices. Most routers include a firewall to protect the network from external connections.
A router is connected to a modem or directly to the internet connection, and it provides multiple ports as well as the ability to manage network settings via a web browser.
A router has an incoming port that connects it to the internet, often labeled "WAN." Some routers may allow for configuration of multiple incoming ports.
Routers are almost without exception managed devices, and their configuration is often done through a web browser.
If there's an internet connection at home, there's almost certainly a router as well.
See our selection of routers and mesh devices to extend network coverage for any need.
Network Cable (Ethernet / RJ-45 / Cat6)
A network cable connects devices to the local area network and the internet. The most common form is an Ethernet cable with an RJ-45 connector, such as Cat6, which supports speeds of up to 1 Gbps. Cat5e cables can theoretically achieve the same, but Cat6 is a more reliable choice for modern networks.
The maximum length of a network cable is approximately 100 meters. Beyond this limit, a repeater or switch is needed, or alternatively, fiber optic cable can be used.
Switch
A switch connects multiple devices to the same local area network. It does not share the internet connection or act as a router, but rather expands the number of ports, for example, when the router's ports are no longer sufficient.
Basic switches merely distribute traffic, while managed switches allow for the definition of settings and rules. They are popular in IT environments where network monitoring and prioritization are important.
Firewall
A firewall protects a network by blocking unauthorized connections and malicious network traffic. Consumer routers often have a built-in firewall, but more robust environments use separate firewall devices that offer better performance and more granular control options.
A firewall monitors incoming and outgoing traffic and uses rules to either allow or block connections.
PoE (Power over Ethernet)
PoE allows power and data to be transmitted over the same network cable. For example, a surveillance camera or a wireless access point can operate with a single cable without a separate power supply. This simplifies cabling, especially in installations where the network device is placed in an inconvenient location.
Remember to check the power limits of PoE ports and the power requirements of devices to ensure compatibility.
Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber optics transmit data using light. This enables extremely fast data transfer over long distances without signal degradation. Fiber optics are commonly used in backbone networks, but also increasingly in internal networks for households and businesses.
When using fiber optics, it is important to ensure compatibility between device connectors (such as SC or LC) and cable types.
Want to upgrade your home network?
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