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Difference between Gateway and Modem
A computer or any other networking device such as a router, needs a modem in order to connect to the Internet. The term "modem" is an acronym for "modulator-demodulator," and it refers to the hardware device.
In the realm of computer networking, the word "gateway" can refer to a number of different things depending on the circumstances. A gateway is a type of networking equipment that, in general, serves to connect two or more distinct networks together. Its primary function is to act as a link between networks that make use of distinct architectural styles, protocols, or platform types.
Read through this article to find out more about gateways and modems and how they are different from each other.
What is a Gateway?
A gateway is a piece of hardware that performs the functions of a modem and a router all within the confines of a single unit. The word "gateway" can refer to a number of different things in the networking business. A network node that acts as a gateway and provides access to another network is known as a gateway.
A router interface that is linked to the local network can function as a gateway in the sense that it provides an exit route from a subnet or a connection point to a different subnet or network. A gateway is a computer that can connect computers that operate on different platforms, protocols, or operating systems.
A gateway is a connection point that acts as a bridge between two networks, making it possible for several networks to communicate with devices despite using different protocols. It makes it possible for IP packets to connect to or disconnect from the local network. When a target address cannot be located on the same LAN network as the default gateway, the delivery of data traffic is indicated by the default gateway.
It acts as a node that bridges the gap between two different networks. It could be a router, a firewall, a server, or some other piece of networking equipment, but it is something that enables data to enter and exit a network.
A typical example of a gateway device is a router, which is a piece of hardware used in home networks and which forwards IP packets from one network to another. It makes it possible for personal computers connected to a local network to send and receive data across many networks.
A firewall can also act as a gateway, in which case it will examine all packets, both incoming and outgoing, using a predefined rule set to look for dangerous data.
What is a Modem?
A modem is a piece of hardware that links your home network to your Internet service provider (ISP) through the use of the same coaxial cable that carries cable television signals to your television. A computer's ability to communicate through cable lines is made possible by the employment of a border device known as a modem.
In this configuration, separating the cable TV from the home network will necessitate the use of a splitter. In most cases, Internet connection is made available by the same company that offers cable TV services. Modems are devices that ensure that a connection may be made to the network provided by your provider. It is necessary for the modem to be compatible with the service provider.
Waves of a digital form are used to store information in a computer, whilst analogue forms are used for the transmission of information via telephone lines. It does it by transferring digital data from the Ethernet card in your computer to a frequency block that is not being used. The only difference between this one and another television channel is that this one transmits digital data rather than images and sounds. These days, modems are physical boxes that connect your home network to your Internet service provider (ISP) over your phone line. This gives you access to a broadband Internet connection that operates at a high speed.
A modem is a piece of hardware that, when connected to your home network and your Internet service provider (ISP), may create a high-speed broadband Internet connection over the phone line. Analog voice signals transmit via phone lines. When used in conjunction with a cable or phone line, a modem makes it possible. It alters the data signals so that they are formatted in a manner that is more suitable for the capabilities of the phone line. It does so by employing a communication channel such as a phone line, coaxial cable, or optical fiber in order to transmit and receive data.
Difference between a Gateway and a Modem
The following table highlights the major differences between a Gateway and a Modem −
Basis of
Comparison | Gateway | Modem |
|---|---|---|
Definition | A device in a network that
acts as a point of
connection between that
network and another is
known as a gateway. | Any networking device
can be connected to the
internet through the use
of a modem, which is a
piece of hardware. |
Uses | It is a piece of hardware
that combines the
capabilities of a modem
and a router into a single
piece of equipment. | It performs the function
of a border device and
makes it possible for a
computer to transmit
data via cable
connections. |
Pros | A gateway is a computer
that acts as a network
mediator by connecting
computers that utilise
different protocols,
platforms, or operating
processes to other devices
on the network. | It takes an analogue
signal coming from a
cable or phone line and
analyses it digitally so
that it can be translated
into a language that a
computer can
understand. |
Cons | The configuration that is
stored in the router itself is
the one that the gateways
use. | The modem does not
operate in a manner that
would result in the
maintenance of any
traffic. |
Alternatives | A gateway is a device that
permits networking and
may also be referred to as
a firewall, router, server,
or another similar term. | It comes in cable modem
and digital subscriber
line (DSL) modem
varieties. |
Conclusion
A modem is a piece of hardware that allows a computer to send data via cable lines. Its primary function is to act as a border device between two networks. It does this by transforming an analogue signal coming from a cable or telephone connection into digital data, which a computer is able to detect and comprehend.
A gateway, on the other hand, is a device that operates as a gate between two networks; it connects computers that are running different protocols, operating systems, or platforms. A gateway is a type of network equipment. Any device that enables traffic to flow into and out of the network can function as a gateway, including routers, firewalls, servers, and any other such devices. A combination modem and router is referred to as a gateway in some circles.
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