What Are The Different Types Of Modems?
There are many different types of modem and the one for you will depend on the exact needs of your network.
- External modem
An external modem is a standalone modem that does not contain a router. It can, but is rarely, attached directly to a computer via USB, Ethernet or sometimes wifi. Usually it will be attached to a separate router so you can share your connection with multiple network nodes around the home or office.
- Router/Modem Combo
A router/modem combo is a modem that is contained within a router, which allows multiple computers/devices to connect within one network. It is a fairly common technology nowadays as it means networks don’t need a separate modem and router.
- Integrated modem
An integrated modem is a modem that is contained within a computer (usually by USB or as a PCI card). As most people have a range of computers and devices they want to connect to the internet, this type of modem isn’t really used anymore as it only allows the one computer to connect to the internet.
- Cable, DSL, Fiber, Dial-up Modems
As well as integrated and external modems, routers can also be categorized by the type of service you use to connect to the internet. These are cable, DSL, Fiber and dial-up modems. Most common are cable and DSL, although if you live in an area with fiber optic access this can really speed up your internet.
While popular when the internet first started gaining popularity, dial-up modems have lost a lot of users since the advent of broadband and high-speed internet. As such it would be quite rare for someone to still be using a dial-up modem.
As well as the type of connection you should also check the speed your modem can handle with the speed your ISP provides. This is incredibly important, as if your ISP offers you download speeds of 300Mbps and your modem can only handle 100Mbps you will be seriously limiting the potential of your internet connection.
Likewise, if your ISP offers speeds of 300Mbps, there is no point in buying a modem that offers quicker speeds than that as you will be limited to the speeds provided by your ISP.