Some apartment buildings and college dorms don't require a modem for Internet access. By reusing the network name, you won’t have to reconnect devices that were previously on the network. If turning off the Wi-Fi functionality isn’t possible, change the original Wi-Fi network name to something else. Afterwards, set your Google Wifi or Nest Wifi network name to what you used previously with your old modem and router device. It is recommended to turn off the built-in Wi-Fi in your combined modem and router device. But for optimal setup, you may need to adjust settings on the combination device to ensure your Nest Wifi router or Google Wifi point is your network's primary router. Connecting your Nest Wifi router or primary Google Wifi point to these types of combination gateway devices is okay. Many ISPs provide a device that includes both modem and router functionality. Modem and router combination devices (Gateways) A cable modem router (also known as a gateway) is a device that connects to the Internet and distributes its signal to various devices. When it comes to establishing your home network, everything boils down to personal taste. Your router or primary Google Wifi point should be connected to your modem with an Ethernet cable. A router connects your home’s Internet-connected devices to the Internet. Modems are usually provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). A gateway, which is also called a combo modem and router, combines the functionality of a modem and a router on the same box. A modem is a device that sends information between the outside world or Wide Area Network (WAN), and your home.Ī modem turns your inbound connection (coax cable, telephone line, fiber optic line, or other) into an Ethernet connection, which then allows a Wi-Fi router to connect to the Internet.

Modem vs router