Whats the difference between a router and a modem?

Question

I would like some example. Also, picture would help to show the devices

Answer 1

A modem will connect to your internet service provider and deliver the internet to your home. A router is then plugged into the modem, and from there the router distributes your internet connection to all your computers and everything that is connected to the internet. A router also comes with a firewall to help protect your computer from hackers, as well as wireless capabilities, and many other features.

http://z.about.com/d/compnetworking/1/0/...

http://www.microsoft.com/library/media/1...

Answer 2

Unless you have dial-up, the incoming line from your ISP Internet Service Provider goes directly to your

MODEM

http://www.fotosearch.com/SDC136/188812s...

If you only have one computer, you can connect it directly to the Modem.

But in cases where you want more than one computer to share the same internet connection in your home network, and/or you want your computers to be able to share files then you need a router.

Next a Cat5 (or above) cable connects your modem to the

ROUTER

http://www.fotosearch.com/UNZ581/u142030...

Then each computer connects to the Router either by cable or wireless.

Note:  Newer devices combine the Modem and the Router into one box.  

http://www.dlink.com/products/?pid=567&s...

I do not recommend this, as when one dies you are stuck replacing them both again (even though the router might still be fine).

Diagram home network:

http://compnetworking.about.com/od/homen...

^j^

Answer 3

A modem (MOdulator/DEModulator) converts what's being sent into signals that can be transmitted over the wire.  There HAS to be a modem on the line.

A router, on the other hand, routes messages to one of several computers or other devices.  It does no conversion, only redirection of messages.  If only one computer is using the line, a router isn't necessary.

So you must have a modem, but you might have a router.

Hope that helps.