Most people think that the only way to get a better internet connection is to upgrade their service plan, but that’s not always the case. You might be surprised to learn that you can actually boost your internet speed and performance just by using a modem router combo.
In this article, we’ll show you how to set up and use a modem router combo for maximum performance. We’ll also give you some tips on how to troubleshoot any problems you may encounter. So read on to learn more!
What is a Modem?
A modem is like the “middle man” between your computer and your internet service provider (ISP). When you connect to the internet through a cable or digital subscriber line (DSL), your device sends signals to the ISP’s office over copper telephone lines. These signals are used to create an electronic version of your voice conversation, which it then transmits to their servers using radio frequencies. The data is then transmitted back down from the ISP’s servers over another set of radio frequencies.
Basically, modems act as interface between computers and phone lines, enabling two-way communication that makes possible for you to access all types of online content on the web. High speed modems can support multiple devices while wireless routers allow several people to access the internet simultaneously.
What is a Router?
A router is like the “traffic director” on a busy road. It directs and controls network traffic and enables multiple devices to connect with one another. Routers have been around since 1993, when Al Gore invented the internet as we know it today. Since then, there have been many technological advancements in wireless routers that allow them to support up to 32 devices at a time.
How do Modem Router Combos Work?
A modem router combo is basically a combination of a cable modem and wireless router, packaged together in one single device. By combining two separate products into a single unit, you can save space and money by eliminating the need to buy both an ISP-provided cable modem and a separate wireless router. While modem router combos are often less expensive than buying two separate devices, it’s important to make sure that the device you buy is compatible with your ISP before spending your hard earned money.
Why You Should Buy a Modem Router Combo?
A modem router combo offers several important advantages over buying a cable modem and wireless router separately. The biggest advantage is that you’ll get faster speeds from your ISP, without having to upgrade your plan. This is because many ISPs offer internet packages with bandwidth limitations to provide service at an affordable price. With a modem + wireless router, you can connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously while maximizing the available throughput of your ISP package.
Many people who have a separate wireless router and a broadband modem have probably experienced slow down in their internet connection because there are competing demands for the same limited resource-bandwidth. You should know that connecting both devices directly to one another can lead to connectivity issues, so it’s best for each device to be connected via Ethernet cable.
You can also benefit from modem router combos by having a simpler installation process, saving yourself time and money on professional help. In addition to being compatible with popular ISP providers such as Comcast Xfinity, Time Warner Cable, Charter Spectrum, Cox Communications and more , modem router combos are very easy to set up even for inexperienced users. If you have any problems setting up your new internet connection, our helpful customer service representatives will be more than happy to assist you via phone or email.
What You Should Look for When Buying a Modem Router Combo?
When shopping for a good modem router combo, it’s always best to check the specs of each product before making a purchase decision. Here are some important factors that you should look for before buying a modem + router combo unit.
Broadband Compatibility:
The first thing you should look for when shopping for a new internet connection is compatibility. Since everyone has his or her own unique needs, make sure that you find out which ISPs are compatible with the device you’ve chosen to buy. This way, there won’t be any issues down the road if you ever change ISP providers in search of faster speeds and better deals on internet service.
Wireless Technology:
Another important factor to consider when buying a modem router combo is wireless technology. Wireless-AC offers superior performance over the older Wireless-N standard, so it’s ideal for streaming HD content online or playing online games against other players over the internet. While Wireless-N is still good for basic internet use, it’s not as reliable as Wireless-AC.
Dual Band or Tri Band:
You should also look at the wireless bands supported by the device you’re planning to buy. Many devices support both single and dual band networks, allowing them to work with more ISPs and provide a better connection over a longer distance. While most people only need a dual band router for their internet connection, higher end routers can connect to 5GHz signals as well as 2.4GHz signals simultaneously. If you run a lot of bandwidth intensive apps on your network, such as online gamers who stream HD content from services like Netflix, then Tri-band routers are ideal because they cover all available bands.
How does Modem Router Increase Your Internet Speed?
ISPs usually offer internet packages with limitations or caps on how much data you can transfer each month. If your ISP only offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps, then buying a router that supports 300 Mbps wireless technology would be overkill. However, if the same ISP upgrades its infrastructure and provides speeds of up to 1000 Mbps , then it would not be practical for you to buy a modem that only supports speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
The reason why is because wireless routers have built-in network processors which work towards providing the best connection possible while minimizing lag time between devices on your network. Wireless-AC routers are capable of sending out multiple signals simultaneously while keeping them separate so there’s no interference, allowing you to connect more devices at one time. Wireless routers are not capable of sending out multiple signals simultaneously, leading to a weaker connection that causes high amounts of lag time when playing online games or watching HD streaming content on your network.
