Modem

A cable modem acts as a bridge between a cable provider’s WAN (Wide Area Network) access and a router for the LAN (Local Area Network).

A DSL modem connects a DSL/ADSL line (WAN) to a router for the LAN.

A Channel Service Unit (CSU) or Data Service Unit (DSU) is a modem-like interface that connects a leased line WAN to a router for a LAN. It may also be available as a module that can be installed in a networking router.

Key considerations:

• Placement of the modem to avoid electrical interference
• Cabling between the modem and the WAN
• Cabling between the modem and the router for the LAN
• Connectors on each end of cabling being used by the modem