Modems & Routers

Filter

FAQs

When comparing a modem vs router, the key lies in what each device does for your internet connection and your home network. A modem is a device that connects your home or office to the internet via your internet service provider (ISP). It translates the digital signals from your ISP into a form your devices can use.

A router, on the other hand, doesn’t connect directly to the internet. Instead, it creates a local area network (LAN) by taking the connection from the modem and distributing it across multiple wired and wireless devices in your home or business. The router allows your devices to share files and peripherals like printers, and to communicate securely within the network.

So, in essence, the modem connects your home to the internet, while the router connects your devices to that internet and to each other. Some devices combine both in one unit – often called a modem router combo – but understanding the difference between a modem and a router is essential when choosing the right setup for your network needs.

Connecting a Wi-Fi router to a modem is straightforward, and it’s key to getting your devices online. Here’s how to do it correctly:

  1. Power off both the modem and router.
  2. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the modem to the WAN/Internet port on the back of the router.
  3. Plug in and power on the modem. Wait a minute for it to initialise.
  4. Power on the router. It will automatically begin distributing the internet connection received from the modem.
  5. Use a second Ethernet cable or your device’s wireless settings to connect to the new network.
  6. If needed, log in to the router’s admin page via a web browser to configure Wi-Fi names, passwords, or advanced settings.

This setup ensures that the modem connects your home network to the internet, while the router creates a local network for multiple devices to connect. With this structure, you can enjoy both wired and wireless internet access across your home or office.

If you’re connecting to the NBN (National Broadband Network) in Australia, whether you need a modem and a router depends on the type of NBN technology installed at your premises.

For Fibre to the Premises (FTTP), Fixed Wireless, and HFC connections, NBN provides a modem-like device (called an NBN connection box), so you only need a Wi-Fi router. However, for Fibre to the Node (FTTN) or Fibre to the Building (FTTB) connections, you’ll need to supply your own VDSL2-compatible modem router or a separate modem and router.

If you’re unsure, always check with your internet provider before buying equipment. In most NBN setups, using a modem router combo is a popular choice, especially for home users who want a simplified setup. However, opting for a separate modem and router may offer better performance and flexibility, especially in larger homes or business environments where advanced router features are beneficial.

Resetting your modem and router can help resolve many internet connection issues. There are two main types of resets: soft reset (power cycle) and hard reset (factory reset).

Soft Reset (Power Cycle)

  1. Turn off and unplug both the modem and router.
  2. Wait for at least 30 seconds.
  3. Plug in the modem first, wait until the connection stabilises (this could take 1–2 minutes).
  4. Then plug in the router and wait until it fully restarts.

Hard Reset (Factory Reset)

  1. Locate the reset button (usually a small pinhole) on both the modem and router.
  2. Use a paperclip to press and hold the button for about 10 seconds.
  3. Wait for the lights to blink or the unit to restart.
  4. This will erase all settings, so you’ll need to reconfigure your network from scratch.

Note: A factory reset should only be used as a last resort, as it will delete saved Wi-Fi names, passwords, and custom configurations. Always backup settings if possible, especially when using a modem router with advanced options.

In general, a router cannot be used as a modem, because they perform different roles in your internet connection. The modem connects your home to your ISP, translating the digital signal. A router creates a local network and distributes that connection to your devices.

However, some modem routers combine both functions into one unit. In these cases, you might hear someone say their router is also a modem, but it’s technically a modem router combo – a single device with two internal components.

There are exceptions: some advanced routers with a USB port can connect directly to a 4G or 5G mobile broadband dongle, acting as a kind of modem. But in most traditional broadband setups, you still need a modem to connect to the ISP.

If you only have a standalone router without a modem, it cannot connect to the internet on its own. You’ll need to purchase a modem and router, or a modem router combo, depending on your NBN technology and setup needs.

Want help choosing the right modem and router for your NBN plan or business needs? Get in touch with the team at MYITHUB – we’ll recommend the perfect setup to keep your network fast, stable, and secure.

All Categories
Special OffersNew Arrivals 1300 769 640