A digital subscriber line (DSL) modem is a device used to connect a computer or router to a telephone line. It’s a medium that provides internet access through the transmission of digital data through a phone line. With DSL technology, you can use both the internet and the telephone line simultaneously.
You can connect to the internet via a regular modem that uses LAN (Load Area Network) or a cable modem DSL technology most versatile.
Installing a modem and router will take up a lot of space. Luckily, the best DSL Modem Router Combo is a suitable option that offers a reliable internet connection.
Benefits of a DSL Modem Router Combo
A DSL Modem Router Combo is a device that combines both a modem and a router. Here, we look at the benefits. Read on.
Speed
The DSL modem router has a better connectivity speed than the ordinary or regular modem. Most devices of this nature have antennae, enabling you to have even and strong internet coverage to all corners of your home.
Convenience
Once you connect through the DSL modem router combo, you can simultaneously use the internet and the phone line. It is convenient and easy to install and does not take much space than when you install a router and modem separately.
DSL technology saves on cost as there’ll be no need to install new cables since it uses the existing phone line you already use.
Availability
There is no struggle in obtaining a DSL modem router since most ISP providers offer these devices.
Budget
This device is a money saver and there’s no need to purchase other cables to connect. You also have an option to rent it from Internet Service Provider at low costs.
9 Best DSL Modem Router Combo
In this guide, we will analyze the top options in the market. Without a doubt, at the end of this DSL modem router review, you’ll find one that meets your needs.
1. Linksys – X2000 Wireless Router with Modem
If you are looking for efficient and reliable wireless network performance, then settle for Linksys-X router with the modem.
This device is the best DSL modem router combo with a 2.4 GHz band, which provides reliable and dependable internet connectivity. It comes at an affordable price when compared to most options on the market.
The device is easy to set up and use and requires no configuration and can be installed by any person regardless of their skill level. All you need is to read the instructions in the manual, and there you go.
For flexibility, it’s a combo device that replaces the DSL modem and router.
What we love most about this device is the fast speed. You’ll enjoy a speed of up to 300 Mbps, which is a very high wireless transfer rate. Also, it can cover a wide range through its MIMO antenna technology. And if you own the best TV for bright room, it’ll be the perfect match, for sure.
This gadget is versatile, and you can connect a wired device through the Ethernet port for fast browsing and streaming in any place. For ease of use, you don’t need a separate device for internet connection.
With WPA/WPA2 encryption, the Wi-Fi intruders will not have a chance to access your Wi-Fi, which is good for privacy protection. Besides, the SP1 firewall ensures your network is safe from hacking and use by unauthorized persons.
Finally, LinksysX2000 has broad compatibility and works with every Wi-Fi b/g/n devices.
Pros
- Set up is easy and doesn’t require special tools
- A powerful device with very high speeds
- Cost-saving instead of buying a router and a modem
- Compatible with most PCs and laptops
- Reliable and covers a wide range
- Easy to use
- Costs less than most options on the market
Cons
- Irritating message pops up when putting in the password
2. NETGEAR-N600
If you love playing games and streaming videos, then you require a strong and powerful modem router. It ensures there’s fast and efficient internet connectivity.
A dual-band router can pick 2.4 Hz and 5GHz bands while a single band utilizes only 2.4GHz band, and the dual-band is most suited in Wi-Fi Network for gaming and video. NETGEAR N600 dual fits these descriptions and is the best DSL wireless modem router combo.
This dual device technology guarantees you of high speed. Hence, you can play multiple games and stream HD videos with minimal interference.
Another thing to note is that it features a built-in ADSL2+ modem alongside a WAN-Gigabit Ethernet port. This design incorporates a cable or fiber and a wireless router integrated into a single home gateway.
Other than that, your internet activity is kept private since it comes with a parental control feature. Hence, there’s no chance of unauthorized users accessing your private information. Other features that secure your internet include the WPA or WPA2-PSK, WEP, NAT, and SPI, which help prevent a DOS attack.
The Push ‘N’ button for faster connectivity also provide a secure network connection. Accordingly, you can monitor internet traffic via the broadband meter in this device. Thus, it helps in regulating the costs of the internet and the prevention of misuse.
It is easy to set up as all you need is to connect to your PC and use your browser for installation.
For faster multimedia streaming, NETGEAR-N600 dual is your best allay. The package is a money saver and includes the modem router, Ethernet cable, phone cable and filter, and a power adapter.
Pros
- Easy to install
- It’s a dual-band
- Offers high speed hence efficient
- Secure
- Compatible with many devices
- Effortless to use
Cons
- Expensive than most options
3. ZOOM-Telephonic Modem/Router
When shopping for a modem router, it’s essential to pick one with many features and ports so that you can connect to many devices.
Thus, we highly recommend the Zoom-Telephonic Modem/Router, a high-speed device to offer the best internet connectivity.
There are many reasons why we settled on this device. For starters, it has enhanced security features that ensure your data is protected from third-party access.
Secondly, it’s a versatile device that’s compatible with multiple applications, and this gives you the freedom to choose, thereby saving you some money.
When it comes to features, you’ll find four ports hence allowing for use with several devices. This device provides a DSL internet connection of to up to 253 computers, game stations, Wi-Fi phones, and other wireless smart devices. Additionally, it’s compatible with Century Link and any other type of ADSL.
The package is a money saver, and other than the modem router, there’s also a power cable, quick start manual, and Ethernet cable.
Installation is super easy since you only need to plug the device’s phone cord to an ADSL service phone line. Then, using the drop-down menu, select your service provider, and you get started.
It can connect wirelessly via the 4 Ethernet ports to various devices such as; PCs, Ethernet switches, home plug adapters, or other smart devices.
With the WPA2/WPA/WEP wireless security features, you can protect your internet from unauthorized persons. It’s also enabled with the DASP feature or the (Denial of service attack protection) function to ensure your data is free from hacking or interference.
Lastly, this combo device can detect bugging and diagnose and alert you when necessary.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Easy to use
- High-speed connectivity
- Good quality
- Reliable
- Compatible with Century link
Cons
- Configuration to an ISP takes time
4. Zyxel Wireless-Gateway Century Link
If you need a reliable internet connection and the performance, albeit at an affordable price, you can pick Zyxel wireless gateway. This device is powerful, efficient, and reliable to ensure you enjoy optimal internet connectivity at all times.
First of all, it uses the VDSL2 standard, which ensures have a reliable internet speed for your convenience. If you’d like to play games, live bets, or live streaming, the Zyxel is your best selection.
Secondly, this model comes fitted with a Gigabit-WAN port, which allows for a diversity of connections to different networks. For instance, it can connect to a single CPE on a DSL network. It can also connect to a GPON network. While on DSL mode, it works as a gigabit 5th LAN port.
For improved speed, the device uses 802.11n technology. Hence, it can cover a wide range with no possibility of dead zones within your home.
For your peace of mind, the security of this device is commendable. The traffic from WAN to LAN is highly protected by NAT and SP1 Ethernet firewalls. Therefore, it detects and manages malicious data to ensure your personal information doesn’t fall into the wrong hands.
You’ll just need to click the WPS button, which consequently will support the WPA2/WPA/WEP configuration, thereby ensuring your network is safe all the time.
Also, the C1100Z is compatible and auto-detects the Century Link network. It provides DSL forum compliant remote management feature for quick deployment by the service providers.
To conclude, Zyxel is a popular brand that supplies equipment supporting dual-stack IP networks, and C1100Z is one of their products.
Pros
- VDSL compliant
- Easy to install
- Speedy internet
- Efficient
- Affordable
- Guarantee the security of your personal information
Cons
- It’s not versatile for use with other service providers
5. NETGEAR Nighthawk Modem Router
If you’re looking for a digital subscriber line (DSL) modem router for your internet connection, you’ll need high quality and efficient modem router. We highly recommend the NETGEAR Nighthawk to allow you to enjoy a fast and reliable internet connection.
NETGEAR DSL modems and modem routers are known for compatibility with DSL broadband or service providers. Mainly, this device connects with non-bonded Century link and frontier non-bonded VDSL.
One downside of this device is the lack of compatibility with bonded VDSL, an acronym for a very high bit-rate digital subscriber line.
To install the device, it requires you contract internet service provider to obtain a PPPoE username and password before installation.
Moreover, the Nighthawk model is a dual-band gigabit. This means that it’s an alternate solution to replace the modem router you obtain from the service provider.
Another plus advantage of this device is that you can swiftly access quick internet to allow for prompt detection. It connects to the internet seamlessly, and you can just use your phone line.
It is powerful, and with external antennas alongside beamforming +, it can improve your internet range for efficiency and reliability.
The device also ensures your internet connection is secure as it comes fitted with remote access via the open VPN, Ready Cloud, and genie App. Hence it allows for remote router management, which you can use at home and.
Also, it comes with two USB ports for use with various devices. Being versatile, this device will give your real value since you can use it with your iPhone, Android, or iPad gadgets.
You can mark and set online boundaries through the parental control feature to prevent tampering of data or interference.
Pros
- Provides high speed internet
- Reliable internet connection
- Secure and protects your private information
- Versatile and compatible with many devices
- Wide range coverage
Cons
- Expensive
- Needs technical support for installation
- Not compatible with bonded VDSL
6. MOTOROLA VDSL2/ADSL2 Modem and Wi-Fi router
The market has a wide variety of modem routers that are compatible with many DSL service providers. Motorola VDSL 2/ADSL2 is the best DSL router modem combo and fits this description perfectly.
This gadget is an excellent option if you have a VDSL/ADSL services available from Century Link. It also works perfectly with the frontier or any other DSL ISP.
As multipurpose combo equipment, it boasts of a combination of modem and router. It does feature an AC1600 Wi-Fi Gb router that offers high-speed internet connection to suit all Ethernet devices and Wi-Fi at home or office.
Another reason to consider this device is that it’s safe to use due to protection from surge or lightning. Also, it’s easy to install and doesn’t require a technician to set it up.
The Motorola is a high performing device that delivers internet speeds of up to 100/Mbps. It connects well with your already installed telephone wiring. You can stream HDTVs access game stations, tablets, computers, and any other Wi-Fi-enabled gadgets.
Other notable features include 4 gigabit Ethernet ports and a USB 2.0 host port where you can use with USB to store files. Moreover, Motorola AC 1600 is a perfect partner where you intend to share video and audio files through other devices within your network coverage.
Security of your internet and data is through an advanced firewall and WPA/WPA2 wireless security. Further,It also boasts of a built-in virtual Private Network (VPN) capacity, and it is also supportive of IPv4 and IPv6 to achieve a flexible and robust internet network.
This is the best DSL wireless modem that saves in terms of space and hustle of wiring and installation of power cubes.
Pros
- User-friendly
- Easy to install
- Surge protected
- Secure
- Good value
- Efficient
Cons
- Expensive
7. TP-Link Archer Modem Router
An advanced modem router means more functionality, efficiency, and better performance. If you’re looking for speed and reliability, we recommend the TP-Link Archer modem router.
It’s a next-generation modem router with superfast speeds of up to 1750/Mbps. Hence it’s a good choice for homes and large business establishments where there are many internet users.
What attracted us to this device is the tri-dual band antennas, which you can fix outdoors. Consequently, the internet coverage is expanded besides increasing in strength and reliability.
We also like the fact that the device provides a strong signal. Hence, this makes it suitable for high internet users to stream HD videos, online gaming, and video conferencing. In addition, it has a one GB LAN and WAN port as well as three GBs LAN ports. As you can see, it’s a multi-use device that will give you real value.
Two multifunctional USB ports enable users to share files and media with multiple users within your home or FTP server when far from home. These USB ports enable you to share a printer with many computers. And it can be of any brands, i.e., HP printers and Canon Pixma printers will work perfectly fine.
Archer D7 is compatible with ADSL and Ethernet WAN connectivity, enabling you to enjoy fast and reliable internet. The ADSL connection is enabled through a standard phone cable, whereas the LAN/WAN port help the device to allow connections from fifer/cable modems through the Ethernet cable.
The design is superb, elegant, and stylish. Thus it’s a smart device that you can give a trial.
Archer D7 has an optimized configuration making it easy to set up and access the internet. It supports IPv6, which is the basis of the next generation internet connection.
Lastly, the Guest network Access ensures secure access to the Wi-Fi.
Pros
- Reliable
- Versatile use
- Easy to set up
- Secure
- Wide internet range
Cons
- Not compatible with some internet providers such as AT&T and VDSL
8. Netgear-N300 Modem router
Many devices for your internet connection can be confusing and costly. That is why we recommend a router and modem combo for both homes and businesses. In our search, we settled on Netgear-N300 for many reasons.
First, it’s more superior than a router from a service provider that may come with limitations. If you’re looking for speed and efficiency, you may want to consider this device.
Another thing we noticed is the incredible power that offers excellent speeds of up to 300 Mbps. What this means is that it uses a more advanced Wi-Fi technology to offer wide coverage.
Hence it can cover all corners of your home, outdoor areas, and even in dead zones like basements where the internet network has been inadequate and unreliable. Amazingly, it connects with all internet devices, PCs, laptops, smartphones, and many others.
With Netgear N300 Wi-Fi router, you’ll enjoy streaming videos, games and sharing the fun within your network.
It is easy to install and use, requiring no technical support but just reading the simple instructions and getting connected.
Incredibly, the Netgear-genie App enables you to manage, monitor, and repair your network from your mobile device.
The Push’N’ connect button allows for easy Wi-Fi connection, and the power on/off helps in power saving when the internet is not in use.
For maximum privacy, you can limit kids’ access through the Parental controls feature, which secures all your devices from tampering or misuse. Also, with the Guest network feature, you can maintain separate and secure access for your guests.
Your Wi-Fi connections are safe and secure, thanks to the WPA/WPA2 wireless security system.
The Ready Share feature allows you to have fast and efficient shared access to external USB.
Pros
- Efficient
- Fast speed
- High quality device
- Secure
- Reliable
- Installation process is breeze
- Great value for money
- Compatible
Cons
- There’s no built-in link for installing updates
9. Motorola MG Wi-Fi Router
It can be disappointing having an unreliable internet network that keeps on fluctuating. Such inconveniences may slow your productivity and communication.
Rather than buying a router and modem separately, it would help if you bought a 2-in-1 Motorola MG modem router. It will fix your connectivity issues and save on money as well as space.
This device offers a fast and reliable network of up to 1900 Mbps, one of the fastest speeds. As a dual-band modem router, it can support 24 download channels and also eight upload channels.
The device has wide use since it can connect to many cable service providers and elsewhere globally. It features four gigabit LAN port ports and is compatible with Wi-Fi S(802.11ac) standard.
This device works with Any Beam technology to direct the routers’ Wi-Fi signal to wireless devices for better performance. It allows you to enjoy shared internet access to computers, HDTVs, game stations, tablets, smartphones, and other Wi-Fi enabled devices with its built-in-router. And get ready to enjoy seamless performance when you pair this unit up with the best laptop wi-fi cards.
Furthermore, the Power boost in this device helps enhance wireless signals to the FCC limit while boosting the internet’s range and speed.
With the Quick Start menu, you can easily install the device without the need for special tools. To simplify the configuration, use a unique security password that is available upon purchase.
As a matter of caution, all devices for use with this gadget must have an Ethernet port.
Pros
- The set up process is easy and straightforward
- Offers a fast and reliable internet connection
- Compatible with wide variety of cables service providers
- Delivers a strong signal
- High quality device
Cons
- It’s a little bit pricey
Things to Consider When Buying a DSL Modem Router Combo
The market for internet products is broad and complicated. As such, it can be difficult finding the best product that will suit your needs. Likewise, poor internet connection can be frustrating, and it would be best to have a modem router combo to improve connectivity, speed, and browsing and stream videos.
It’s also useful in connecting many devices like smartphones, laptops, and any other wireless device within your home. It may be expensive to buy a modem and a router separately, but it’s cheaper to buy a combo. Here, we look at the factors to consider when buying a modem router combo.
Frequency Bands
There are two frequency bands in modem routers – 2.4 GHz and 5GHz. Several devices can use a 2.4 GHz band within your home, and this can cause congestion. In the end, there will be some interference and slowness in connectivity.
A 5GHz is less cluttered and provides a faster connection. Moreover, a dual-band device will have the advantage of using bands, thereby minimizing interference and congestion.
Security
Although the internet is widely applauded as a phenomenon, it has its downsides. Your private information could land in the wrong hands, and hence your connection must be safe at all times.
Avoid choosing a modem router combo that can be easily hacked and expose your data to unauthorized persons. A modem with DOCSIS 3-0 features guarantees you of such security.
Speed
All internet users expect to have a fast and reliable network when browsing or streaming. Check the maximum download and upload speeds the combo will avail you. If you intend to play games, you require fast internet connectivity with 500 Mbps or gigabyte plans to match the speed you need.
Range
The combo should have a wide range of capabilities to reach every corner of your home. Moreover, the signal should be constant and well distributed throughout your house.
It should be strong even in dead zones like basements and outdoor areas where you can browse or stream as you relax.
Find out the number of antennas available and ask about the company’s signal’s quality since the manual’s general instructions may be inadequate.
Ports
Before you part with your money, it’s important to check the router to find out the number of USB ports available, which you can connect directly to devices like PCs and the top printers.
A modem router combo with many ports is an ideal option since you can escape the cost of having many devices.
An Ethernet port facilitates speedy connectivity if connected directly to the computer. Establish which devices can function with the available USB ports and Ethernet ports.
Budget
The purchase of any item requires budgeting, and the modem/router combo is no exception. In the market, you’ll find cheap and affordable devices that will sufficiently serve you.
On the same note, it doesn’t mean that a inexpensive combo is of inferior quality and cannot function efficiently than an expensive one. Go for a device that is affordable and capable of meeting your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I have a modem router?
Having a modem router offers you the option of saving money and space. You don’t need to buy a router or modem in separate with a modem router.
It’s an all-in-one, and only need a single power outlet to connect the device instead of many cables.
Also, a modem router is suitable for use in places where you have many users. From our DSL modem router review, it’s evident that a modem router offers a wider coverage and can support many devices.
If you like streaming videos or playing online games, a modem router is an excellent choice.
2. What is the best modem router?
The best modem router should offer you first-class internet connectivity with a wide range, reliability, and clarity. It should save you on space and help you connect without requiring technical support.
Also, it should be easy to use and affordable, compatible, and secure. It should have a high rating and with many positive reviews from past users.
3. Do you need a qualified technician to install a modem router?
Most modem routers require no training to install. From reading simple instructions in the manual, you can do it yourself without any external support. If there’s a caution, you can call the service provider and ask any questions about the installation.
If you have a malfunction, look at the warranty terms before calling a technician.
4. How can you ensure your internet is not tampered when using a modem router?
Most modem routers have features that help secure your data from unauthorized persons. You can secure sensitive data from falling into the hands of kids the parental control feature.
Also, the WPA/WPA2 features let you enjoy some privacy when using the internet. Get a modem router with as many security features as possible to ensure maximum security.
5. Which is better to have a modem router combo or modem and router separately?
A modem router is better since it’s easy to use and set up. It’s compact and is be cheaper than buying separately. You can sign up with an Internet Service Provider (ISP) to rent a modem router combo box at a low monthly fee.
You can install a router and a modem separately where you intend to manage your security settings, which would be an advantage.
When separate, it’s easy to replace one than when combined. An example is where you require upgrading the internet; you can only replace the modem and leave the cheaper router. It does not also limit you to deal with ISP.
Conclusion
With a good modem router, you can enjoy a fast, reliable, and efficient internet network. All you need is to consider all the factors above to ensure you get the best device.
Many brands are available in the market, which can confuse you, and hopefully, this guide has all the information you need to buy the best modem router combo.