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Hardware & Equipment

Modem

The device that connects your home network to your ISP's network, converting the incoming signal (cable, DSL, or fiber) into data your router can distribute.

What It Means

For cable internet, the modem communicates using the DOCSIS protocol. DOCSIS 3.0 modems support up to about 600 Mbps, while DOCSIS 3.1 modems handle multi-gigabit speeds. Using an ISP-provided modem typically costs $10-15/month in rental fees — buying your own modem ($60-150) pays for itself in under a year. For fiber, the modem equivalent is an ONT (Optical Network Terminal), which is usually provided by the ISP at no charge. An outdated modem is one of the most common causes of slow speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Modem" mean?

The device that connects your home network to your ISP's network, converting the incoming signal (cable, DSL, or fiber) into data your router can distribute.

Why does Modem matter for internet quality?

For cable internet, the modem communicates using the DOCSIS protocol. DOCSIS 3.0 modems support up to about 600 Mbps, while DOCSIS 3.1 modems handle multi-gigabit speeds. Using an ISP-provided modem typically costs $10-15/month in rental fees — buying your own modem ($60-150) pays for itself in unde...

Related Terms

Router
The device that creates your home Wi-Fi network and distributes your internet connection to all your devices. A router's capabilities often bottleneck your actual internet speed.
Ethernet (Wired Connection)
A wired network connection using an ethernet cable, providing faster and more stable speeds than Wi-Fi with zero interference. The gold standard for speed testing.
ONT (Optical Network Terminal)
The device installed at your home that converts fiber optic light signals into electrical signals for your router. The fiber equivalent of a cable modem.
Range Extender vs. Access Point
Two different approaches to extending Wi-Fi coverage. Range extenders rebroadcast the signal (halving speed), while access points connect to your router via ethernet for full speed.

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About This Data

Definitions based on FCC standards, industry specifications, and federal broadband policy. Speed benchmarks reflect 2024 FCC standards. See our methodology.