How to Select a Modem for Your Business

Most Internet providers will ask you to rent your modem from them, but what they don’t tell you is that you often have the opportunity to purchase your own. What are the benefits of doing so, and how can you make the best decision possible while modem shopping? We’re here to give you a hand.

Should You Consider Renting Your Modem?
Most ISPs will allow you to rent your cable modem, which might include a built-in router to save time and money. In this case, you actually get what you pay for, so don’t expect mind-blowing quality from this device. These might be consumer-based routers that aren’t as high-grade as a business needs to be successful, both in terms of security and functionality.

If you’re not interested in this option, or you want more options for your wireless connections, you’ll be choosing a third-party router; and, if you’re already looking at routers, you might as well check out modems. Since most ISPs charge you by the month for your modem, you could save some cash in the long run. It’s also worth noting that some ISPs will make you use their modem due to restrictions placed on them by certain cable companies, which means you’re stuck with them no matter what you do.

What Cable Modems Are Compatible with Your ISP?
If your cable provider will let you use a third-party modem, most cable modems will work. Of course, you want to check with your ISP first to make sure you purchase a compatible model. Another key issue that could present itself is connection speed. You’ll want to make sure that any modem you purchase will support the speed capabilities of your router.

Should You Consider a Modem-Router Combo?
A two-in-one modem and router generally isn’t a good idea, primarily because if one fails, the other will fail as well. If they are separate devices, you will only need to replace one when it fails, rather than replacing the entire device. Plus, these all-in-one devices are far from the quality that you should expect from a business-grade solution, especially in security. We recommend investing in secure resources whenever possible, especially a trusted router that’s set up properly. You should never rely on default settings!

Does your business need help setting up hardware for your networking infrastructure? Network Solutions Unlimited can help. To learn more, reach out to us at (217) 428-6449.