Service Modems and Basic Networking Principles

In the last post we briefly mentioned that it is better to get your own modem rather than use one provided to you from Comcast etc. There are multiple reasons for this but the short answer is reliability. Most internet service providers nowadays will supply a gateway (router) modem. This a combo unit that has a modem and router bundled in one device. While it sounds like a quick solution to your internet needs and may work in some situations; there are a few things you should know to decide whether or not it's right for you. And if you have AT&T, you cannot get a separate modem at this point that I'm aware of; you need to keep their modem regardless.

Let's start with who a service provider modem is right for, first. The combo modem is a good solution for those who aren't doing much more than web-surfing, perhaps streaming Netflix on a media player and doing basic online tasks with a limited amount of devices. The other stipulation here is that your home's square footage does not exceed roughly 2,000 sq ft or you only have selective areas in your home where you need WiFi coverage and this modem can be centrally located in this area. Beyond that, I would suggest a better network.

Today's smart home that is adding multiple IP-based devices and control systems requires a more robust network. An automation system with IP (Internet Protocol) controlled devices talks to every device on the network. Communication without interference is key in these types of environments. Anyone with kids in the home also requires a lot of bandwidth. Video streaming on YouTube, Netflix and internet video gaming takes up more bandwidth than anything. The service providers' modem simply cannot handle the traffic requirements in these situations.

If your home requires this type of network activity, the combo unit is not the way to go. The network configuration I recommend is a separate modem, router and then access points where more WiFi coverage is needed. Even adding a better router to the provider modem is not a solid solution. The reason being, is that you essentially have 2 routers on your network and as I always say, "Anything with more than one head is a monster." The modem's job is to provide the internet from your cable signal, the router's job is to give an IP address to every network device that wants to live in your network "neighborhood". 2 Routers can end up competing against each other for the lead and consequently shutting down your network. Someone may bring up the fact that you can put the service modem in "bridge" mode which essentially turns off the router in that modem. This is true; however, a power outage or an update can potentially disable the bridge mode in your modem reverting it to router mode. Also, anytime you call the provider and say you're having internet issues, they will likely default your modem, which will put it back in router mode as well.

Lastly, let's talk about expanding your WiFi coverage. In this case the three possible solutions are: an access point, repeaters/extenders, or using a router set up as an access point. We've already discussed the problems with having more than one router on your network; and that same philosophy will apply here as well. A repeater/extender is a plug-in unit (whether user configured or automatically configured) that relies on strong enough signal from another area to help "fan" it towards a weak area. Simply picturing this in your mind should turn you away from this direction. While this may work in some cases (the most notable would be Apple's Airport Express); more often then not, a repeater will actually make your signal worse. A WiFi access point (preferably the same brand name as your router) is by far, the best solution. The reason being, an access point is set up with a hard-wired network cable which originates at the router. In other words, it has its own feed; it provides it's own broad cast signal which is far better than any repeater.

I hope this helps clear the air regarding setting up a proper network in your home. Whether you have a 2,000 sq ft' condo or a 20,000 sq ft home; Simplicity Audio Video can help you get the coverage and speed your home and family needs.