Modem vs Router: What's the Difference?
People use "modem" and "router" interchangeably, but they're two different devices with different jobs. Understanding the difference helps you troubleshoot slow internet.
What a modem does
The modem connects your home to your ISP. It translates the signal coming over the cable, fibre or phone line into data your devices can use. One job, one connection.
What a router does
The router takes that single internet connection and shares it with all your devices — over WiFi and Ethernet — and manages traffic between them. Your WiFi network is created by the router, not the modem.
Why you often have both (or a combo)
Many ISPs provide a single "gateway" box that's a modem and router combined. Separate devices give more control and often better WiFi, but a combo unit is simpler.
How they affect speed
An old modem can cap your speed or cause bufferbloat; an old or poorly placed router limits WiFi range and multi-device performance. Run our test wired (tests the modem/line) and on WiFi (tests the router) to find which one is holding you back.
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