adsl modem and broadband router, are they the same thing?

Question

i have a Siemens speedstream 4100 ethernet ADSL modem, but it is not working any more, so i am trying to get a replacement. at&t charges me $49 alone just for that modem.

i am looking online right now, i see a lot of cheap wireless routers and broadband routers, i wonder if they are the same thing?

can i buy this one to replace the adsl modem?

http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=202592906&adid=17653&dcaid=17653

Answer 1

No, they serve completely different functions.

A DSL modem basically converts DSL signal into an Ethernet signal (if it has Ethernet output), and vice versa.

A broadband router, on the other hand, lets you "share" that Ethernet signal with multiple computers, thus both establishing a network AND share the connection.

So a broadband router wouldn't be able to talk to a DSL line, as it doesn't know how without the modem. Router only talks Ethernet, so to speak.

Answer 2

Either will give you internet access although adsl modems are usually dirt cheap and provided by ISP's with little configuration options whereas broadband routers (go for ADSL if your using the phoneline, other one is cable routers) have much more options with things such as built in firewalls, port forwarding (needed for P2P) and most of them have ethernet ports so you can plug multiple PC's into it....also some have built in wireless as well.

So it all depends on what you need it for. I've always gone for routers especially since modems that are provided by ISP's aren't an "always on" connection and you either have to double click an icon to connect or start a web browser to connect to the internet which takes more time than if it's always connected (routers) as true broadband should be like.

I'd rather pay an extra £30 for a decent wireless router. If you decide to go for a router then go with a well known brand (Better to pay £10-20 more for one that will last and provides better performance), check the reviews from a site that's not selling the router and update the firmware when you get it for the newer features and greater stability.

Answer 3

I've had two Speed touch modems that let me down so I went and bought a Zoom USB ADSL Modem. It was much faster too, but any USB BB modem will do.

Answer 4

No, you need a modem. 49 bucks is actually pretty dang reasonable. Routers are used to SHARE internet connections or files, for networking.

I would take the 49 dollar deal... your not really going to find a new one cheaper