Can I Use a Router Without a Modem?

You can use a router without a modem to transfer files or stream content between devices on a wireless network. However, you need a modem and an internet service provider (ISP) if you want to access the internet.

Do I Need a Modem if I Have a Router?

You don't necessarily need a modem or an internet connection to communicate with other devices on a local area network (LAN). As long as you're connected to a router's wireless network, you can send data to printers, external drives, and other devices.

The main difference between a modem and a router is the modem provides an internet signal. In contrast, the router broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal to allow your devices to communicate wirelessly with the modem (and with each other). A modem is needed to communicate with devices outside of your network via the internet.

How Do I Setup a Router Without a Modem?

The steps for setting up a Wi-Fi router with or without a modem are basically the same:

1. Find the network name (also called the SSID) and the network passkey. This information is usually printed in the manual or on the bottom of the router.

   If the default network name and password have been changed, reset your router to restore the default settings.

2. Connect the router to the power supply and plug it in. If the router doesn't turn on automatically, press the power button.

3. On your computer, select the Wi-Fi icon in the Windows taskbar or the Mac menu to see a list of available networks, then select the network name and enter the passkey.

   If your computer has an Ethernet port, you can connect directly to the router with an Ethernet cable.

4. Connect your other devices to the router's network. You'll need to use your computer to connect a printer to your Wi-Fi network.

5. To configure your router's settings, open a web browser, find your default gateway IP address, and enter the default gateway IP address in the URL field.

6. Enter the username and the password for the router. This information can also be found in the manual or on the bottom of the device.

7. Use the admin console in your browser to adjust your network settings. For example, there are plenty of ways to make your home Wi-Fi network more secure.

   It's highly recommended to change the network SSID and password on your router so it will be less vulnerable to hackers.

Creating a LAN makes it possible to share files over your Wi-Fi network. For example, if you enable file and printer sharing in Windows, you can store files in your Windows Public Folder so anyone on the network can access them or transfer files directly through OneDrive. There's also a way to set up file sharing on Macs.

Can I Get Internet Without a Modem?

You'll need a modem and an ISP to access the internet. You may be able to connect your computer or game console directly to the modem with an Ethernet cable, but you'll need a router to connect wirelessly. There are also modem-router combination units, which are essentially modems with built-in routers.

Can I Use a Wi-Fi Router and Modem Without an Internet Provider?

While you can use a router without a modem or an ISP, you can't connect to the web wirelessly without all three. Your options for an ISP are limited based on where you live. If you have the luxury of choosing between internet providers, consider the speeds offered compared to the price.