modem/router - technical definition

A device that connects multiple computers to a single DSL line for Internet access. Earlier modem/routers were used for analog dial-up, with some units containing dual modems for "channel bonding" two lines together.

Modem/routers provide the network address translation (NAT) required to support several computers, but must be cabled to an Ethernet hub or switch to actually connect them. If the device includes the switch, it is a "cable/DSL gateway." See cable/DSL gateway, NAT and channel bonding.