When you think about your home or business network, do you really know what each device does and how they work? If you ever wondered about your modem, we have your answers here.

What Is A Modem?
Modem stands for “modulator-demodulator” which basically describes what it does. The modem acts as the connecting point between your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and your router by encoding outgoing information and demodulating incoming information.

Before, modems sent data directly across telephone lines. These days, modems use different routes depending on the type. Cable modems use coax cable, whereas a separate frequency on copper lines is used for DSL. When it comes to fiber connections, instead of a modem, an ONT (optical network terminal) is used.

Cable Modems
Cable modems are usually divided by which generation of DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) they support, and from there, the number of channels supported can vary. All of this determines the maximum download and upload speeds for the modem.

DOCSIS
The original DOCSIS 1.0 came out in 1997, with a single channel and maximum speeds of 42 Mbps down and 10 Mbps up. The updated DOCSIS 1.1 was the same, but added standardized QoS (Quality of Service) settings.

In 2001, DOCSIS 2.0 was released, again with a single channel and download speed at 42 Mbps, but with upload speed at 30 Mbps. Five years later, DOCSIS 3.0 was introduced and is what is used by most carriers today. It has the same speeds as DOCSIS, but with added multiple channels. There is a minimum of 4 channels for both download and upload, but no limit on the maximum number of channels specified. The download channels that are commonly used are 4, 8, 16, 24, and 32, while the upload channels are 4 or 8.

DOCSIS 3.1 became available in 2013, but was not widely adopted. It supports speeds up to 10 Gbps down and 1 Gbps up, which is achieved by narrow spacing of the channels by way of OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplying). We have yet to see what’s to come with this specification.

Rent or Own?
Modems may be rented from your provider. Renting can be helpful as your provider will supply you with the most compatible modem with the appropriate configurations to maximize bandwidth. If speeds increase, or there is a need for an upgrade, you can often trade up. Also, when you come across any problems, technicians can eliminate the modem as the root of the problem. If you are receiving landline service as well, most aftermarket modems won’t support this so renting may be your best option.

Rather than renting and paying a monthly fee, you can always purchase your own modem. Modems are relatively inexpensive, making them easy to own and to replace as necessary. Before you purchase your own, be sure to consult your ISP to ensure compatibility. Often times they can provide you with a list of compatible modems.

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Find a great selection of networking equipment, including modems, plus new and refurbished business phones, phone systems and more at Startechtel.com. If you have any questions, please call 1-800-564-8045.

Tags: Cable Modems What You Need To Know, Modems, Modems The Basics, The Basics About Modems, What Are Modems