By Lesa 
For people like me who’re always connected to the internet, it’s a million-dollar question whether to buy or rent modems and routers from the internet service provider (ISP). Well, paying a rental fee every month can be a little frustrating, but it comes with free support. But at the same time, buying your own equipment can save a lot of money. What a dilemma!
Join me as we explore how each device serves its purpose and finally narrow down on what is right for you Let’s start:
Modem:
Modem stands for modulator-demodulator, and it establishes a connection between your ISP and router. A modem receives data from your ISP, converts it into a format our devices can use, and forwards them to our routers which eventually distributes those signals to our devices.
The following are some common modem connection types:
- DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) Modem: DSL modems are one of the oldest types of modems, and a telephone line is used to connect them to the ISP.
- Cable Internet Modem: In cable internet, the modem is connected to the ISP via coaxial cables. It is one of the most common types of modems.
- Fiber Internet Modem: Fiber optics are used in fiber internet to connect a modem to the ISP. It is relatively a new technology and offers symmetrical internet speeds.
Router:
As mentioned above, routers get the internet signals from modems and deliver them to our devices. Our internet speeds are highly dependent on routers. If the router’s placement gets compromised, it may affect the internet speeds.
Depending on wireless bands, there are three famous types of routers:
- Single-Band Routers: Offer either 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands.
- Dual-Band Routers: Offer both 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands.
- Tri-Band Routers: Use 2.4GHz Bands with two separate 5GHz or a single 6GHz bands.
Now that you’ve understood the concept of modems and routers, let’s see if it’s best to buy or rent them.
Buying a Router and Modem:
Although most ISPs offer to rent out routers and modems to their customers, you can buy them from the market. When buying either of these devices, you may need to pay a high upfront cost. However, it may be less than what you pay your ISP monthly in the long term. Now, let’s explore some more pros and cons of buying a router and modem:
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Buying a quality router and modem may save you a lot of money in the long term.
|
The router and modem you buy may not be compatible with every ISP service.
|
| You can buy better quality equipment that may help you get better connectivity and internet speeds. | You may be dealing with the technical aspects of the devices without any tech support. |
| Buying your own router and modem offers more control over security protocols, guest networks, and more. | You may not be able to upgrade your WiFi equipment’s firmware or software for free. |
Renting a Router and Modem:
Most people may rent out a router and modem from an ISP because of the convenience. You don’t need to shop for a router or modem and worry about their compatibility. However, you may need to pay a monthly rental fee to your ISP. Now, let’s see what are some other benefits and downsides of renting out a router and modem.
Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Your ISP may not charge any maintenance cost, instead offer free technical support for the equipment. | The monthly rental fee for the router and modem may increase over time. |
| You don’t need to install updates as it may be automatically done by your ISP. | You may not be able to use the router and modem with any other internet connection. |
| Your ISP may replace the internet equipment for free if it malfunctions. | Your ISP may have access to your router and modem. |
| You may get older hardware that affects your connection speeds. |
Bonus Section: What Should You Do?
You’re now well aware of the pros and cons of buying or renting out the modem and router. However, if you’re still confused about what to do next, this section should help clear your thought process.
Rent a Modem/Router if:
- you find an ISPthat includes free internet installation with its internet service. Customers who are subscribed to AT&T Internet service can enjoy in-home WiFi installation as well as assessment by the technician.
- you’ve moved into a new house for a short period, then a wise decision would be to rent out the internet equipment so you may not need to take external help to set up your equipment.
- you’re not a tech-savvy person, then a sane decision would be to get the equipment offered by ISP. In case the equipment malfunctions, you may always be able to call your ISP’s support for troubleshooting.
Buy a Modem/Router if:
- you’re planning to stick to an ISP for the long term.You may save a lot of money on the monthly rental fee of the modem and router.
- your ISP does not offer a quality router and modem.
- your ISP charges an extraneous monthly rental fee.