Modems

[porkchop]

The modem i have from my current provider (Virgin) allows me to get wireless signal to operate my computer upstairs as well as downstairs. My current provider is putting up his price so as my contract is over its time for me to move. My query is, do all other providers provide the same type of Modem which has the same wireless capacity as my current provider, ie, to enable working online upstairs or downstairs.

[JimF]

I'm guessing that, when you say 'modem', you mean 'router'.

The answer to your question is no, they do not provide the same type of router. However, getting a wireless extender is fairly simple.

[Zacs-Master]

Modems and routers are a single box, so the name is really interchangeable. A combination modem router or cable modem router combines the function of both a modem and a router into one piece of hardware (sometimes called a gateway). This combined unit (modem router or cable modem router) performs the functions of both a modem and a router to connect you to the Internet ​and distribute that internet connection to your multiple devices.

[Zacs-Master]

I meant to add….
All major providers boxes will cover a whole house. Unless you live in a mansion.

[JimF]

Not quite. The modem is what connects the home network to the internet, where the router is a device that lets all of your wired and wireless devices use that internet connection at the same time and also allows them to talk to one another without having to do so over the internet.

That's what the OP is asking about.

[barry1010]

Have you asked Virgin for a better deal? I do successfully every time they try to put my price up

[Buenchico]

In case you're getting confused . . .

A modem connects your home network to the internet. A router connects everything together (such as your computer and a wireless printer) among that network. So, theoretically at least, they're not the same. However the 'box of tricks' that's supplied by just about every supplier of home broadband, which they usually refer to simply as a 'router', actually has both devices in it, so it fulfils both functions.

The modem part of Virgin's 'box of tricks' is different to that which is used by other providers because it has to link to Virgin's own cable system, rather than to the BT/Openreach phone network. However a router (which includes a modem anyway) from any other provider will still create a wi-fi network in your home, enabling you to wirelessly connect to the internet (or to other device in your home, such as a printer) both upstairs and downstairs.

[porkchop]

Virgin call it a MEDIA HUB, if that helps. Thats a white box connected to my landline and also power outlet. Is that a modem or a router?

[JimF]

It's both in the same box. But it's the router part of it that you're concerned about, i.e. the wi-fi connectivity upstairs. As mentioned, if that proves to be an issue, there are easy ways to improve it.

[drmorgans]

Tell them you're thinking about changing provider and they will probably offer you a better deal.

[Buenchico]

As Jim indicates, a Virgin Media Hub is usually referred to simply as a wireless router but it actually contains both a modem and a router.

Any other mainstream provider of home broadband services will supply their own wireless router (incorporating a modem), so you'll still have a wireless network throughout your home. Some routers provide better signals than others though, so a router from a different provider might be either a bit better or a bit worse at getting a signal to the upper floor of your home. That shouldn't be any reason to worry though, as the chances are that a different router will work just as well for you anyway. (Even if it didn't, a cheap wi-fi extender, for £13 from Amazon, would solve your problem).

Almost all broadband providers include a free router (or a router on free loan) with their deals but it would best to read their small print to ensure that you're not expected to provide your own. (My own ISP is one that targets business customers, rather than home users, and requires their customers to provide their own routers but such a policy is extremely rare with companies offering services to personal users).

[porkchop]

Thanks Buenchico and others. I learn something new every day! I'm going to dump my current provider for half price offer, Happy days!

[barry1010]

pork chop, have you got a BT line in your home?

[porkchop]

I have a landline, not BT.

[barry1010]

Is your landline provided by Virgin? I ask because they don't use the BT landline that all other providers use. I am stuck with Virgin as I don't have a BT landline.