Modem vs. Network Card
By Chris Davis
Most modern computers are equipped with either a modem, a network card, or both. A primary purpose of each is to allow access to the Internet, but many users don't know the difference between the two.
Signal Type
A network interface card, or NIC, sends and receives data as digital signals, which are compatible with computer technology. A modulator-demodulator, or modem, translates data between the digital format used by computers and the analog format used over phone and cable lines.
Speed
Reliability
Cost
High-speed cable modems can cost anywhere from $50 to $300, while fax modems are much cheaper at $10 to $50. The price of a network card varies greatly depending on the speed and how many ports it has, ranging from $10 to upwards of $150. (Prices are as of July, 2010.)
Secondary Functions
NICs have few secondary uses, although some electronics can be powered via an ethernet cable connected to a network card. Fax modems can be used to send and receive faxes and to send and receive phone calls through a modem-equipped computer using available software.
References
Writer Bio
Chris Davis has been writing and editing since 2001. He has written for Elinon Online and written and edited content for the Oaks Fellowship. Davis studied computer science at Texas A&M University-Commerce and is now working on a Bachelor of Arts in English at Southwestern Assemblies of God University.