If you've noticed that your internet speed has been slower than usual or you are experiencing more wi-fi connection issues, it might be time to upgrade your router and modem. But how do you find the best router and modem to meet your needs? We suggest replacing them both with a modem router combo!
If you need to upgrade your modem and/or router or are looking to enhance your home internet setup in 2023, then you should consider getting a modem router combo. Modem router combos are exactly what they sound like: they're a combination of a modem and a router in a single device, creating a wireless access point with increased Wi-Ffi speeds so you can browse, send data, and use the internet with ease.
Modem router combos are great because they offer many benefits over getting a modem and Wi-Fi router separately. For one, they're more affordable - when you get a combo, you're essentially getting two devices for the price of one.
Another benefit of modem router combos is that they're easier to set up. Rather than having to set up two separate devices, you only have to set up, install, and connect one device. This can save you a lot of time and hassle.
What's the difference between a modem and a router?
Both modems and routers are the hardware that gives your device internet access, but they do so in different ways. A modem is a device that connects your home to your internet provider. It does this by translating the data from your internet provider into a language your devices can understand. This data is then sent to your devices via an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi signal. Each modem is also assigned a unique IP address, that helps identify it on the World Wide Web.
A router, on the other hand, is a device that helps direct internet traffic between multiple devices on your home network. It does this by creating a local area network (LAN), which is essentially a group of devices that are all connected to each other. Routers also provide an extra layer of security for your network by creating a firewall.
One common misconception is that routers also connect you to the internet. However, this isn't the case. In order for your router to work, you need to have a modem that's already connected to the internet.
How a modem and router combo improves your internet connection and Wi-Fi
If you need a modem and/or router upgrade, getting them separately might seem like a safe idea, but combos are the best wireless internet connection and the preference of many. It's more affordable, easier to set up, and provides better performance with faster speeds to meet all your internet needs.
Whether you're downloading large files, love gaming, or just enjoy scrolling on your phone, a modem router combo will help boost signal strength with a higher mbps internet connection, for improved Wi-fi signal and Wi-fi speeds so all the internet users in your home can enjoy the fastest internet experience for social media, gaming, or streaming without any lag or hassle.
1. Increased speeds
There are many benefits to having a new modem and router, especially if they're together. One big benefit is that it upgrades your wi-fi, so you'll likely see an increase in your internet speeds. If you have an older modem, it's probably unable to handle the speeds your internet service provider (ISP) offers. Getting a new router modem combo will help ensure you have faster internet connectivity and that you're getting the most out of your ISP plan.
When you have two separate devices, the signal has to travel between them, which can slow things down. But with a combo, everything is in one unit, so the signal doesn't have to travel as far, reducing the need for an extender or antenna to help boost coverage and speed.
2. Better security
Another reason to consider getting a new modem and router is security. Technology is always changing and evolving, including how hackers try to break into people's networks and computers. If you have an old modem, it might not have the latest security features to protect your network. By getting a new modem router combo, you can be sure that your network is as secure as possible because they have more powerful processors and memory, which helps them keep your network more secure.
3. It's easier and more affordable
If you're on a budget, getting a standalone router and modem can be costly and time-consuming. Buying a separate modem and router means paying for two devices, whereas a modem router combo is just one cost. Plus, having to wait for two different deliveries and then trying to figure out how to get them both to work together can be frustrating.
With a combo, since the modem and router are in one device, not only is it easier to set up and use, but it also takes up less space while offering better performance: modems and routers that are designed to work together usually perform better than those that aren't. You may also be able to get a discount when buying a router combo device that's compatible with your internet provider.
Figuring out which modem router combo is best for you
Now that you know the benefits of getting a modem router combo, it's time to choose the best one for you.
The first thing you need to do is figure out what type of internet connection you have. You'll need a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem if you have cable internet. If you have DSL internet, you'll need an ADSL2+ or VDSL2 modem to enjoy a connection to the internet.
Once you know what modem you need, the next thing to do is figure out what speed you need. The higher the speed, the more expensive the modem will be. However, getting a modem that can handle your current and future speeds is important in case you upgrade your internet package.
The last thing to consider is features. Some modems come with built-in routers, while others don't. If you already have a router, then you don't need to worry about this. However, if you don't have a wireless router or your current one isn't very good, it may be beneficial to consider getting a device with a built-in router for a more reliable internet connection.
Satellite internet or cable modem router combos - we've got what you need!
There are many manufacturers of modem router combos, so whether you're looking for the best cable modem router combo or satellite internet, HomeLinkd has some of the best combos with top cable internet service providers and fiber internet providers.
1. Earthlink
EarthLink has more coverage than any other US internet service provider and helps users reach speeds up to 1 Gbps with no data cap!
2. AT&T Fiber
AT&T offers reliability with consistent speed, giving you fast internet at up to 1000mbps! You can also enjoy bundle offers with DIRECTV and home phone options - meaning all your entertainment needs are taken care of in one convenient bill!
3. Spectrum
Spectrum is a major cable internet provider, offering fantastic cable internet plans covering most states. You can enjoy up to 1000Mbps on a 12-month contract to lock in your price. There are also great bundle offers available, giving you premium channels for less!
4. Frontier FiOS
With Frontier FiOS, you can stream and download content up to 1000Mbps! You also have bundle options, combining fiber with voice and TV at one affordable price.
5. CenturyLink
CenturyLink offers both DSL and fiber connections, offering great value for money, giving you the right internet connection to get things done!
6. HughesNet
As one of the few satellite internet providers, HughesNet can provide you with up to 25Mbps on a satellite connection which proves handy if you’re in a rural area. With a reliable connection and affordable packages, you can enjoy an unlimited satellite connection with no hard data limits; use up your allotted data and still have access to the internet at a reduced speed at no extra charge!
7. Viasat
Another great satellite internet provider is Viasat which offers bundles with DIRECTV and voice packages! Enjoy up to 50Mbps with up to 150GB data cap price plans! With free standard installation and coverage in over 50 states, Viasat is the second-largest residential satellite provider in the US!
On that final note
In conclusion, if you're in need of a new modem and router, we recommend getting a modem-router combo. You'll likely see an increase in your internet speed, and your network will be more secure. Not to mention, there are some great budget modem router combos available, so you might even be able to save some money in the process!
If you have any questions about choosing the best modem router combo for you or setting it up, or if you're looking to upgrade your internet plan, please don't hesitate to contact HomeLinkd - we're always happy to help!
Written by:
Matthew Harrington
I’m Matthew, your go-to tech enthusiast who loves diving deep into the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of all things technology. My day job? Breaking down complex systems so you don’t have to! When I’m not geeking out over the latest gadgets, you’ll find me exploring new coding languages or reading about future tech trends. I believe every technical problem has a solution, and I’m here to guide you through them, step by step.
Discover the Best Plans for You
We have a wide selection of plans to choose from, so you can find and select the perfect one to suit your needs.
There's a deal for with fast, reliable and secure internet. With dozens of plans and bundle offer to choose from, you'll be spoilt for choice.
CenturyLink is your trusted provider of internet, home phone, and TV services. Whether you're at home or on the go, CenturyLink offer fast and reliable internet.
AT&T offer you a variety of options to get the high-quality services you require, including DSL, fiber optic and fixed wireless networks, streaming and satellite TV services, and extensive 5G coverage.