Difference between router an modem

[Paul]

Today we use both modem and router in our system. But among them how can you find the differences. What is a modem and what is a router. There is a vast difference between both, but I will also not say that all are outdated and modems are not in practice. For such you must learn what is the procedure of installation, the hardware used and other features which help you to determine the difference between them. The ADSL modem, as well as the cable modem work as a bridge. As a result, only one PC can be connected to this modem and the computer network of the provider using a special program (PPPoE authentication) must log on to. In contrast, reports an ADSL router (such as cable router) to the provider itself. The PC / Mac, the router is behind this, no software to install thus have special.

There is little exception there. When using an ADSL modem has a Watchguard SOHO firewall is connected, it takes on the application and so it works virtually the same as with a router. The small difference, however, that the WatchGuard SOHO firewall protection against Cracker is one, because it supports stateful inspection and NAT not only as the ADSL router. A combination of router and WatchGuard SOHO firewall is also feasible, e.g. in the case of official fixed IP addresses. ( more info on the WatchGuard SOHO ).

By definition, the modem is a device that allows the connection and data transmission between the computer and the telephone line. In the case of ADSL technology, it is obvious that you need a modem for connection between PC and ADSL linead. The modem in question must be able to support transfer speeds of ADSL technology.

Some points :

• To connect to the Internet, the modem must dial a connection the first time a request is made. That is not always connected to the Internet. The router is always connected (while on).
• A modem works through a USB port and requires some drivers to work.
• A router operates through a RJ45 Ethernet cable, much like the phone but thicker, and all you need is a network card, integrated today in the same motherboard.
• A Modem consumes more resources compared to the Router.
• A modem for a PC only. The router usually comes with more than one connection. Most often, allowing up to four cable connections directly.
• A router has two IP addresses: its own IP address (public) to make connections from the outside or the Internet and private IP address through which you access our computers (gateway).
• Each computer connected to a router that assigns a different IP address (DHCP), which are what are called private IP on the outside and cannot be known (in theory). They tend to be of the form 192.168 .*.* (e.g. 192.168.1.15, 192.168.2.23, etc).
• May come with a wireless router, which can connect wireless devices.
• A router is safer because it usually comes with built-in firewall, which by default usually comes with all incoming connections closed.
• One drawback, saying that a router is more difficult to manage or change the default settings.
• The router usually has a web interface to configure via its private IP, which should be the gateway of our team.
• A router can be configured to function similar to a modem configured in Standalone (one team). Multi-point usually are, hence we have to map ports for incoming connections, which is nothing more than redirecting a port for connection to one of the teams we have in our network.

Router :

A router is in the form of a box connected to your computer. With the router you're connected to broadband internet (wired or wireless) or you mount a local network. Several computers can share, for example, access to multiple devices (printer, scanner) and the Internet. If you have only one PC at home, you can opt for a router connected via cable (Ethernet) to your machine to access the broadband Interne . It gives a great connection stability, higher throughput. This solution is gradually disappearing in favor of new multifunction routers like cable and WiFi. Wifi router are very flexible to use and it has ability to connect one or more computers at home and then to move, for example, with a laptop. No need to use cables.

In most cases, the router from your ISP offers a wide range of services: free calls, access to television, simultaneous sharing of the connection through WiFi. It is a modem router connected to a main PC (Live Box, Freebox) that delivers Internet access to other computers. This router is provided when setting up your connection (or not included in the subscription). Most ISP's modem routers (Freebox LiveBox, AOL Box, Neuf Box, etc.) Are based router / NAT / firewall. The NAT and Firewall (firewall) improves the security of your connection: protection of the IP address of computers connected, protection against external attacks (hacking).

[Paul]

Choose an independent router (or modem-router connected to your ISP) if you wish:

• Optimize access to the Internet: increased throughput, improved security.
• Setting up a LAN: choose a router with many ports (more possibilities for interconnections between computers)
• Assemble a corporate network, your router is accompanied by an access point (an additional housing distributing Internet access, for example).
• Advantage: better security, bandwidth savings, privacy. If you opt for this type of router, make sure it has a "Switch", a device that accelerates the transmission of data between computers.
• To configure certain options (IP address, cache) or from greater security, make sure your router supports the following protocols: Support VPN Pass-Through, DHCP / NAT / PAT / PPPoE, UPnP

Unlike an Ethernet type local network (the usual) in which a message from one person to another is transmitted to all computers on the network, and collects only what is identified as recipients, on the Internet, the volume is so high that it would be impossible for each computer receives all the traffic that moves to select messages, so we could say that the router instead of moving a message to all the networks that make up the Internet, just move the message between the two networks that are involved, the sender and receiver. That is, a router has two different but related missions.

There are several types of routers, to include:

• If you use a PC with Windows 98 or later to share an Internet connection, the PC will be doing basic router functionality. Will just see if the information packets are intended for external PC or other group.
• Routers are more sophisticated, and in fact the most used, do more, including protecting our network of foreign trade, and are capable of handling far more traffic. That is why they are the typical choice in small networks, and even in home users.
• The most powerful routers, which are spread all over the Internet for managing traffic, handling a volume of millions of packets per second and optimizing the paths between origin and destination.

Functions :

The first function of a router, the most basic, is, as already indicated, whether the recipient of a package of information is in our own network or on a remote. To determine this, the router uses a mechanism called subnet mask. " The subnet mask is similar to an IP address (the unique identification of a computer on a network of computers, something like its name) and determines which belongs to a group of computers in particular. If the subnet mask of a packet of information sent does not correspond to the computer network for example, our office, the router will determine, obviously the fate of that package is in some other network.

Each PC connected to a network (either a local or network of networks - Internet-) have what is called a network card. The network card handles the input / output of information and self-identification is called MAC ID. This identification could call MAC's physical identification, the coordinates would be our home ground. It is unique, real and accurate. This physical identification we can associate a logical identification, IP call. Following the example of the house, the physical identification (MAC) would land coordinates, and their identification would be logical address

Installation :

Set up an ADSL router does not mean anything more than set some basic parameters such as domain, IP addresses, protocols, and identification of access to your provider. Unlike switches and hubs, router, ADSL needs to be configured. Routers can connect network segments that use different protocols. They also allow all users to share a single Internet connection or a wireless network (wireless). This device, apart from price, is the best choice to connect via ADSL especially if you plan to buy more than one PC in the house (perhaps a notebook). After setting the connection parameters do not have to do anything and you can connect to the Web every PC you want (provided it does not exceed the maximum provided by your ISP). The first thing to know before you starts configuring an adsl router, and your username and password.

[Paul]

Most providers, allows the use of 'welcome' as the username and 'guest' as password (usually lowercase) for the first connection. Then you must choose, usually the user name when you insert the installation procedure will be followed by the domain but this is not a fixed rule. PPP or Point-to-Point Protocol ", establishes a connection via TCP / IP between two computers using a modem (or router).

In turn, the TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) are the set of codes used to transfer data via the Web and in local networks. The division manages the TCP packets of data to send, while the 'check the correct IP routing. When configuring the router is prompted to enter the PPPoE (Point to Point Protocol over Ethernet or Point to Point Protocol over a network) or the Protocol PPPoATM (Point to Point Protocol over ATM).

For means Asynchronous Transfer Mode ATM, Asynchronous Transfer Mode, a protocol that allows data transfer speeds of up to several Gb per second d, this is also used in the backbone of the Internet and through our planet. In summary, an ADSL router is responsible for data to travel from your computer up to the nearest telephone exchange, which provides an apparatus to route ATM lines and sent to the provider of Internet access.

The DNS (Domain Name System) is a network of Internet servers associated with the task of domain names to IP addresses. The DNS server then keeps an archive of correspondence between the names and IP addresses of the sites and allow all users to navigate by typing the address in the navigation bar of your browser. Whether you use the ADSL router provided by your loan to use, whether you bought it, it must be configured before use.

ADSL Router step by step

• (Windows can vary from model to model, but the substance of the steps and settings are the same) 1. The first thing to do is identify the product the power switch on and off, the door to insert the cable ADSL line (RJ45 = small pair telephone line) and socket (RJ45 Ethernet cable = great for connecting to PC).
• Connect the router to the mains power supply and do not forget to also attach it to the router and connect a network cable that goes from your computer to the router. After these preliminary steps, press the power button. In the event that there is no such a button, the appearance of a yellow light will tell you that the router is on and ready.
• Place the device close to the wall socket of the ADSL line away from heat sources. Most models are designed to be hung on the wall with the appropriate sockets on the body, but if you want you can also place it on the desk next to where you put the PC. Then placed the router in relation to where there are computers, network cables if you have available are not long enough, you can buy custom-made at any computer store.
• Connect the phone cord from the wall outlet, one of the wireless ADSL router. Easily recognize the correct outlet, it generally is separated from all others and is labeled "Line" or "ADSL". In this phase should also check if the cable is positioned correctly, make sure the front of the router is a yellow LED lights at the outlet where you put the cable. You can check if you are connected to your home network, thanks to the icon found on the right of the taskbar of Windows XP, located next to the clock.

• If the network is not working, you will immediately notice a red cross placed over the two small green monitor.
• Important! If you have a switch or hub connected to the adsl router, you may need a crossover cable (crossover) to connect your network switch (or hub) to the router, otherwise the links do not work! 4. To navigate safely, remember to select your browser from the navigation mode by assigning the DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically.
• On the Tools menu of your browser Select Options and Connection subtab. Press the Add button, select the command Connect to the network via broadband.
• Select the connection created after pressing the Settings button.
• So you created a small network which includes the ADSL router and your computer and then, all the devices you choose to connect to the network to take advantage of ADSL.
• In this LAN (local area network) all devices on the network have an identification number to four groups of numbers, called IP address.
• On your computer will be assigned an IP address while the router will have one assigned by the manufacturers. Remember that the router actually has two IP addresses: one external (or public) and an internal (visible only within your local network) The inner one absolutely must be set so as to belong to the same subnet (subnet) to example, if the router assigns the IP address 192.168.1.1 (this will be the 'default gateway' to all other PCs on the network) to other computers on the local network you will need to assign addresses 192.168.1.2, 192.168.1.3 to 192.168.1.9 and the subnet mask is: 255.255.255.0)
• You can find this information in the instruction booklet or CD-ROM included in the kit purchase.
• In our case the 'IP address of the router is 192.168.1.1.
• So access the router configuration. At this point you have to enter correctly the information about your ADSL connection. In particular, the first thing you should have available as your username and password.

Modem

The modem has become one of the best-selling peripherals, and practically most computers sold today comes standard with a modem. This increase is due to the great expansion that has been emerging Internet and flat rate. But if your computer does not have or want to update the modem that is another best performance, this article will be helpful. The word modem is an acronym Modulator-demodulator, or whatever it is, a device that is responsible for converting the digital signal emitted by the computer in another analog that can be transmitted through the telephone line.

Installing any type of modem is quite simple and not of many complications, the really hard part is to opt for a particular model. There are different types of modems, and if we do a quick classification, depending on connection type, you could say that there are two main sections: the external and internal. In this article we will explain practical in a very short the installation of these two types of modems. The internal type used to have ISA connections (these are almost extinct), but now the most common is to communicate using a PCI slot, but now you can also find AMR modem connection (only available for newer boards). On the other hand, tended to have external serial port connection, but now and after the advent of USB, most external modems have USB connection, which facilitates installation. If you have a laptop we use both USB and PC Card laptop specific, we offer the same benefits as any modem but with the size of a credit card. Since the most common are internal PCI and external USB, we rely on them.

[Paul]

A modem (modulator / DeModulator) is a device that can receive and transmit data through the telephone line. Since telephone lines are analog and the information handled by a digital computer, the modem is responsible for transforming the digital signals to analog and vice versa. The modem is one of the most important elements of the computer and is essential in computing. A computer with a modem opens the doors to the world of communications.

There are basically two types of modems: internal and external, and manufacturers usually sell the same modem internal or external version. Select the type of modem depends on several factors, at this point provides some characteristics of each type of modem that will help you make a decision on which modem choice. (In this document only presents the installation and configuration of a conventional modem. Are not taken into account other types of connections: ISDN, ADSL, Modem, PCMCIA, USB, etc.).

There are two types of Modems :

Internal

• They are cheaper
• Serial cable or do not need additional outlet (connected at boot-up)
• No additional space in the table
• Incorporates a new computer serial port.
• The installation is more complicated
• May require configuration changes
• Require an expansion slot (slot) free computer

External

• Are somewhat more expensive
• Need a serial cable to connect to the computer and power adapter
• When external occupies space in the workbench
• It occupies an available serial port on your PC
• Installation is very simple
• LEDs available for inspection
• You can move and easily connect to other computers

Modem Speed

The transfer speed of a modem refers to the speed at which your modem is capable of transferring information and is measured in bits per second (bps). If your intention is to acquire a modem to surf the Internet and get lots of files, you should buy the fastest model. Currently the best bet is a 56 K modem, (keep in mind that getting a faster data transfer involves reducing telephone costs).

Installation :

• External Modem
• Serial cable (connecting the computer's serial port with modem)
• RJ11 telephone cable (connecting the modem to the wall jack)
• Power Adapter
• Installation manuals and software (drivers) Modem

In general, connect an external modem to a PC is easy and quick. Turn off and unplug it the computer. - Identify the available serial ports on your computer. The serial ports are accessible from the back of your computer and can be identified with the legend COM 1 and / or COM 2. Generally a standard PC equipped with one or two serial ports are male connectors which can be 9 or 25 pins. A cable connects the modem serial connection and port number that is in the back of the computer (if necessary, use an adapter cable to adapt the serial connector pin 9 to 25)
Plug the RJ11 phone cable. One end must plug into the modem jack labeled "Line" while the other end should plug in the socket directly (phone jack located on the wall).

If you want you can connect a phone to the modem jack marked "Phone", so you can use the phone when the modem is not being used. Once you have finished installing your new modem hardware, you now need to install the device software. If the installed modem supports Plug & Play, Windows will detect itself that we have connected a new device and proceed to make the necessary settings to work properly. If the version of Windows installed on your computer has the drivers for the modem connected, the Windows OS itself take the necessary steps, otherwise it will display a screen where you will be prompted to enter the modem drivers.

Conclusion :

Modem is today an outdated device which is not widely used as it is not capable of running the new standards. But still the mobile sector have a great importance for modems. Today there are wifi usb modems which acts as same with a much newer and developed technology while on the same hand routers are preferred for the industrial level approach. The main advantages of USB external models are at all times we state the condition of your modem and connection (thanks to LED lights that feature), do not use expansion slot (to be specified for devices with expansion options) , we can reset them without turning off your computer and only use the resources of the USB port to connect. On the contrary, the disadvantages are that take up space on our desks, we close that emit noise levels, need a free USB connector and some require an adapter.

The advantages of a PCI internal modem are: convenience when installing (thanks to plug and play), no sustained presence in our tables, do not occupy any port on your PC and are more economical than an external one. Similarly, the disadvantages are: use of our system resources such as IRQ limited, no LED to indicate its status and whether they are in the back of your PC, so that we miss, occupying a slot expansion. Each type of modem offers advantages and disadvantages, and each user must choose the type and model that suits you.

Router with two standards was chosen because he wanted to draw a double benefit. Most of today's devices use standard 802.11b, including perhaps your laptop. On the other hand, the 802.11g standard by almost five times faster than 802.11b (provides a bandwidth of 54 MB / sec) and is increasingly popular. Therefore it is desirable a solution that allows you to simultaneously connect both types of device-a router that supports two standards.