When it comes to the internet, you’ve most likely heard the terms modem, router, and booster. But do you know what each does and how they are different?
What is a modem?
A modem is a device that connects the internet from your internet service provider (ISP) to your home network. The modem translates the data from your ISP into a format that your home network devices can use.
What is a router?
A router is a device that creates the network inside your house. The router’s primary responsibility is to direct, or route, data between all devices in your home, as well as between those devices and the wider internet.
What is a booster?
A booster, sometimes referred to as an extender, is hardware that is designed to improve the coverage of a Wi-Fi network. You can use it to boost or extend your wireless signal to problem areas where the signal is low.
Does TWN Fiber Internet require all three devices?
The answer is no! The way TWN Fiber Internet is installed, you won’t need a modem.
During the fiber connection process, TWN will run a fiber line to your home. When this fiber line is brought inside the home, it connects to a small box known as the Optical Network Terminal, or ONT.
Technically speaking, the ONT is not a modem. However, it acts similar to a modem because it communicates with your ISP. A modem converts digital signals to analog and vice versa, whereas the ONT communicates through infrared light pulses and fiber-optic wiring.
While you won’t need a modem for TWN fiber internet, you will need a Wi-Fi router. TWN provides one free of charge during the home installation. When your ONT is hooked up to your Wi-Fi router, you are officially connected to the TWN network.
So where does the booster or extender come into play?
If your Wi-Fi router does not provide full coverage throughout your home, one or more extenders can be used to further the network footprint and expand the service area.
Maybe you have internet everywhere inside your house, but you want coverage in your garage. Extenders rebroadcast the existing Wi-Fi signal from your router to the area where you’re not getting a signal and are typically set up midway between the Wi-Fi router and your dead zone. If you decide that you would like an extender, it can be purchased through TWN. A technician can also help determine if an extender is needed during your installation.
Making the most of your TWN 100% Fiber Internet service is easy. We provide you with the equipment you need, and we do all the work to get you connected.
If you haven’t already, visit twncomm.com/mohave, call 888-227-2095, or stop by TWN’s local storefront at 2020 Silver Creek Road #113D, Bullhead City, AZ 86442 to pre-register or sign up today!
