Modem vs. router

Learn the difference between a modem and a router, more about the AT&T Wi-Fi Gateway, and what equipment you’ll need to power your home internet.

What is the difference between a modem and a router?

If you’ve ever wondered how the blinking boxes plugged into your wall keep your home internet up and running, let’s learn the basics.

 

First, here are the key functions of a modem:

  • Connects your home to the internet through your provider’s network
  • Forms a WAN (wide area network) by passing information back and forth between your home network and the public network
  • Has an automatically assigned public IP address that identifies it on the internet
  • Does not have Wi-Fi to connect your wireless devices

 

Now, here are the key functions of a router:

  • Connects your devices to the internet
  • Forms a LAN (local area network), allowing all devices in the network to use the same internet connection and communicate with one another
  • Assigns local IP addresses to every device on your network and directs the flow of data
  • Connects to multiple devices via a Wi-Fi radio signal or via ethernet cables
  • Enables internet security, such as parental controls and firewalls

 

If you want to connect to the internet and join multiple devices via Wi-Fi, you’ll need a modem and a router, or a device that performs both functions.

What is the AT&T Wi-Fi Gateway?

The AT&T Wi-Fi Gateway functions as both a modem and a router to connect you and your devices to the internet. Since it’s both a modem and a router, the gateway is easier to set up, takes up less room, and doesn’t require as many cables, wires, and outlets. AT&T provides the gateway when you purchase AT&T Internet, including AT&T Fiber®.  

Common Wi-Fi gateway models provided by AT&T include: BGW320, BGW210, Pace 5268, NVG599, and NVG589, but you may receive a different Wi-Fi gateway model. Other popular internet service providers also offer similar equipment.