Overview
Modem stands for MOdulator-DEModulator. Its primary job is to convert digital data from a computer into a format suitable for transmission over analog media (like telephone lines or cable systems) and vice versa.
Types
- DSL Modem: Uses telephone lines for high-speed internet.
- Cable Modem: Uses coaxial cable systems (DOCSIS).
- Fiber Modem (ONT): Converts optical signals to Ethernet.
- Cellular Modem: Connects to 4G/5G networks.
Modem vs. Router
A modem connects you to the internet (WAN), while a router connects your devices to each other (LAN) and shares that internet connection.