6 best internal modems

Internal modems are networking devices designed to facilitate communication between a computer and the internet or other networks. Unlike external modems that connect to a computer via a cable, internal modems are installed inside the computer's chassis. Here are key aspects related to internal modems:

  1. Installation:

    • Internal modems are installed directly onto the computer's motherboard, often in available expansion slots, such as PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slots.
  2. Data Transmission:

    • They facilitate the transmission of data between the computer and the internet or other networks. This is done by modulating and demodulating (hence the term "modem") digital data into analog signals for transmission and vice versa.
  3. Connection Types:

    • Internal modems historically supported dial-up connections, where the modem dialed a phone number to establish a connection with an internet service provider (ISP). However, with the widespread adoption of broadband and high-speed internet, internal modems for dial-up connections have become less common.
  4. Functionality:

    • Internal modems may also include features such as error correction and data compression to optimize data transfer speeds and reliability over phone lines.
  5. Compatibility:

    • Compatibility with different operating systems and hardware configurations is crucial. Internal modems typically come with drivers that need to be installed on the computer to ensure proper functionality.
  6. Obsolescence:

    • With the advent of broadband technologies like DSL, cable, and fiber-optic, traditional dial-up modems have become largely obsolete due to their slower speeds. Modern internal modems are more likely to support high-speed broadband connections.
  7. Integrated Modem Router Combos:

    • Some networking products combine the functionality of a modem and a router. These modem-router combos simplify the home network setup, providing both the connectivity to the internet and the local area network (LAN) in a single device.
  8. External Alternatives:

    • While internal modems are an option, many users prefer external modems for ease of installation, troubleshooting, and upgrading. External modems connect to the computer via a standard interface like USB or Ethernet.
  9. Security Features:

    • Internal modems may include security features, but for comprehensive network security, users often rely on additional firewall and antivirus software.

It's important to note that with the prevalence of broadband internet connections, internal modems are less commonly used in modern computers.Broadband modems, whether integrated into routers or as standalone devices, are more prevalent for high-speed internet connections.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best internal modems on the market
  

USRobotics USR5670 56K Internal PCI Modem

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Product Description USRobotics - fax / modem

Device Type Fax / modem - PCI

Form Factor Internal

Max Transfer Rate 56 Kbps

Protocols & Specifications ITU V.29, ITU V.34, ITU V.90, ITU V.17, ITU V.27ter, ITU V.92, ITU V.80

Error Correction Protocol MNP-4, ITU V.42, MNP-2, MNP-3

Data Compression Protocol MNP-5, ITU V.42bis, ITU V.44

System Requirements Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition, Microsoft Windows Vista (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows 7 (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows XP (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows Server 2008 (32/64-bits), Microsoft Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bits), Microsoft Windows Home Server 2011, Microsoft Windows Server 2012, Windows 8 (32/64 bits)

Dimensions (WxDxH) 1.7 in x 4.9 in x 1.9 in

Weight 2.2 oz

Manufacturer Warranty 3 months warranty





EXTENDED SPECIFICATIONS



General

Device Type Fax / modem

Form Factor Internal

Modem

Bus PCI

Connectivity Technology Wired

Max Transfer Rate 56 Kbps

56K Technology V.90, V.92

Protocols & Specifications ITU V.29, ITU V.34, ITU V.90, ITU V.17, ITU V.27ter, ITU V.92, ITU V.80

Error Correction Protocol MNP-4, ITU V.42, MNP-2, MNP-3

Data Compression Protocol MNP-5, ITU V.42bis, ITU V.44

Expansion / Connectivity

Interfaces 2 x phone line - RJ-11

Compatible Slots 1 x PCI

Miscellaneous

Cables Included 1 x phone cable - 7 ft

Software / System Requirements

Software Included Drivers & Utilities

OS Required Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition, Microsoft Windows Vista (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows 7 (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows XP (32/64 bits), Microsoft Windows Server 2008 (32/64-bits), Microsoft Windows Server 2003 (32/64-bits), Microsoft Windows Home Server 2011, Microsoft Windows

User questions & answers

Question: Is windows 10 pro supported for this
Answer: YES As always, current drivers here... https://www.usr.com/en-support/product/?prod=5670
Question: dell Optiplex 5070 mini tower, is this the right modem
Answer: This modem name is PCIe CX95610 Soft Modem. Insert the disc that came with the appliance while using it, and then follow these steps: 1.Click on the file "PCIE Modem". 2.Click on the file"Win8-64". 3. Click to install “Setup 64”. If you are prompted to update the driver, please update it directly. If you have any questions, contact us by email. Thank you!
Question: Will this work with windows server
Answer: I can only say it does work on a Dell PC with Windows 10 Pro. It will recognize it and install the generic Windows modem driver but it works.
Question: do you need to connect the fax/modem to a phone line, or it works with computer's internet connection
Answer: You need to install this fax modem on your Computer host and then connect to a phone line.
Question: Does it have a caller id included
Answer: Yes, it does. This caller id can be seen in the system "Windows fax and scan"' inbox. With more Windows fax features, you can even find them on web pages.

Product features

The Development of Fax

Fax, we can not be more familiar, it can be scanned pictures, charts, text and other scanning into electrical signals, through the communication signal for long-distance transmission, the receiver to convert the electrical signal into specific information, and printed through the printer, to get the transmission party to send the original similar to the attachment.

Fax has been rapid development in the past two decades, its operation is simple, fast-moving, has been recognized by people. But now buy a fax machine also hundreds of dollars, not only that, in the process of use is inevitable to use ink, paper and other supplies, and expensive. And now, using a computer to send and receive faxes, not only save paper, but also save money, save time.

Fax Modem

This Fax Modem has line and phone port. You can easy connect telephone or fax machine. In the meantime, connect telephone line signal interface to receive the signal. The telephone and fax are all OK. Answer the call when you call, if it is a fax, you can start receiving by pressing the receive fax on your computer.

Reduce delivery costs

Effectively distinguish between spam ads and important and useful faxes. Timely confirmation of received sensitive and secure communications information.

Save paper,money,and time

No paper to send and receive, no consumables. You can fax mass hair, also do not have to queue one by one. Easily realize the functions of mass fax, sending mail, printing and so on.

Fax archive, easy to find

All fax information is stored on the computer. Anytime, anywhere to find, do not have to turn the box back to find the folder, page by page.

Meet user confidentiality needs

Many users send and receive fax do not want to be seen by others, but the traditional fax mode from the fax machine out of paper and from the fax machine sent that it is likely to be seen by others what content. It can achieve this function, their own fax received their own computer, send fax is also on their own computer, others can not see.

HP Concorde 56k PCIe x1 Fax Modem Card 503095-001

HP

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

HP Concorde 56k PCIe x1 Fax C40 Modem NEW 503095-001 Standard Bracket Card ONLY * Low Profile Bracket and Drivers are NOT Included

  • Bulk Packaging
  • HP Concorde 56k PCIe x1 Fax
  • C40 Modem NEW 503095-001
  • Standard Bracket Card ONLY
  • 30 day warranty

User questions & answers

Question: is it windows 7 64bit compatible
Answer: I looked on the Internet and it states that this is NOT Windows 7 compatible. Thank you for your interest.
Question: Does it send & receive faxes on a VoIP phone line
Answer: It does for me. AT&T seems to be trying to convert all lines to VOIP.

Zoom Model 3095 USB Modem - 56K V.92 Data + Fax

Zoom

Based on 34 reviews Check latest price

Product description

If you are looking for convenience, ease of installation, and high performance in a dial-up modem, this Zoom USB modem with Internet and fax capability is the answer. It's small, light and perfect for either portable or desktop computers. Installation is very easy. Just plug one end of the faxmodem into your Windows or Mac OS X computer's USB port, and connect the other end to a phone jack with the included phone cord. The USB port provides power to the faxmodem, so you don't need a power cube! The Zoom Model 3095 has a 2-year warranty and quality technical support in the USA by Zoom Telephonics. The Model 3095 is fully compatible with the latest V.92 and V.44 analog modem standards to provide faster Web browsing and fast connect times using V.92 Quick Connect. Phone calls can be taken while on line using V.92 Modem on Hold. Other features of the faxmodem include: support for programmable duration DTMF (Touchtone), call progress tone detection (dial tone, busy, ring, etc.), support for voice mail (requires computers with sound capability and compatible software), advanced ZoomGuard lightning protection, on-board controller and Digital Signal Processor, and V.80 support for point-to-point H.324 video over dial-up phone lines.

  • USB Powered - no batteries or power adapter required. USB plug is built into modem. USB version 1.1, 2.0, and 3.0 compliant
  • Supports the latest dial-up modem standards and faster Web browsing with V.92, V.90 and V.44. An on-board controller and Digital Signal Processor provides enhanced compatibility with Windows, Macintosh, and Linux systems.
  • Fast Connect Times with V.92 QuickConnect
  • Fax Support - a Windows or Mac OS X (v10.6 or later) computer is required
  • Compact Size - Great for the road or the office. Comes with a 2 year warranty.

User questions & answers

Question: Can i use this device to make or recieve voice calls on my pc through a phone line connected to an ooma telo
Answer: No. The Ooma service uses speech compression. Fax generally will not work on compressed calls. VoIP services use T.38 for sending/receiving faxes over the Internet. Ooma does not implement this feature.
Question: will this modem work with iMac Catalina
Answer: It will work on Catalina. The way you'd get it setup would be the same way as the earlier Mac OS. The link provided below will bring you to a page with some instructions on how to set it up on the Mac OS. Link: http://www.zoomtel.com/documentation/dial_up/USBMini-Installation-OSXv105-8.pdf
Question: Need to know more about the requirements for voice mail. What software supports it? Is it supported under Linux
Answer: No voicemail.
Question: Is there a way to get the computer speaker to activate if you use the fax modem? At least to see if it's getting a dial tone, etc
Answer: Go into your fax software setings.

Seagate BarraCuda 2TB Internal Hard Drive HDD – 3.5 Inch SATA 6Gb/s 7200 RPM 256MB Cache 3.5-Inch – Frustration Free Packaging (ST2000DM008)

Seagate

Based on 46 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Store more, compute faster, and do it confidently with the proven reliability of BarraCuda internal hard drives. Perfect for designers, musicians, photographers, and video editors using multiple applications at once, these solutions offer uninterrupted performance, optimized read/write caching technology, and a variety of capacities and form factors to choose from. The result is a seamless experience backed by a two-year limited warranty and 20 years of hard drive innovation.

  • Store more, compute faster, and do it confidently with the proven reliability of BarraCuda internal hard drives
  • Build a powerhouse gaming computer or desktop setup with a variety of capacities and form factors
  • The go to SATA hard drive solution for nearly every PC application—from music to video to photo editing to PC gaming
  • Confidently rely on internal hard drive technology backed by 20 years of innovation
  • Enjoy long term peace of mind with the included 2 year limited warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Is the 2tb (st2000dm008) internal hard drive cmr or smr
Answer: The 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB drives are all SMR, which means they are slow for random writes and not suitable as boot drives. (Google "Why SMR drives are sub-optimal for write-intensive workloads".)
Question: Is this really 7200rpm? the model number suggests otherwise
Answer: I got the ST4000DM004 which claims 7200 rpm on amazon and my computer is reporting it has a media rotation rate of 5425 rpm
Question: Is a sata cable included in the package
Answer: Cables not included. You can buy a SATA data cable and likely the appropriate power cable for your computer right here on Amazon. Depending on your power supply, the power cable may already be connected to it in your computer -- some have that and some do not.
Question: Is this 7200 or 5400rpm
Answer: Only the 1 TB (#ST1000DM010) and 2 TB (#ST2000DM008) models are 7200, all the larger models are 5400. Both the llisted speed and model number change in the product description as you pick different disk size options. This is consistent with Seagate's website -- From the home page, drill down through (or search for) Internal / Hard Drives / BarraCuda - Learn More, and then click the 3.5 inch models tab (NOT the 3.5 inch PRO models tab). Then click on the data sheet next to any model to get a PDF with a table containing all of the models along with their drive speeds and other specs..

Product features

BarraCuda Hard Drives

Upgrading with the reliable family of cost-effective Barracuda drives will improve the efficiency of data processing and retrieval. Improved efficiency provides instant access to data, which means faster game load times, quicker open rates for applications, and speedy file transfers.

ARRIS Surfboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Multi-Gigabit Cable Modem with 2.5 Gbps Ethernet Port, Approved for Cox, Xfinity, Spectrum & Others.

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The ARRIS SURFboard S33 is a DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem that delivers the fastest speeds and the latest technology. With a 2.5 Gigabit and a 1 Gigabit Ethernet port, the S33 enables a multi-gig experience for things like online gaming, 4K video streaming and more. It’s best for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps and setup is simple with an easy-to-use app. It's compatible with any Wi-Fi router and saves you money on monthly rental fees. Upgrade your home network with an ARRIS SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem.

  • MULTI-GIG NETWORKING: The SURFboard S33 features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port for a 2nd network
  • DOCSIS 3.1 Cable Modem approved for cable internet speed plans up to 2.5 Gbps
  • 32 downstream x 8 upstream DOCSIS 3.0 bonded channels, 2 downstream x 2 upstream OFDM DOCSIS 3 1 channels
  • Connects to any existing Wi-Fi router for blazing-fast internet.
  • Compatible with major U.S. Cable Internet Providers including Cox, Spectrum, Xfinity & others.
  • Cable internet service required. Does not include Wi-Fi and does not support cable digital voice service.
  • Stop renting your modem and save on monthly modem rental fees!

User questions & answers

Question: Will this support xfinity extreme 1200mbps ? it's not on the supported device list
Answer: The Arris S33 is a DOCIS 3.1 capable device 32 x 8 rated for speeds up to 2.5 Gb. While the modem is indeed on Xfinity supported device list (check detailed discussions on dslreports.com), what matters is your router. Ensure you have a router capable of 1+Gb speeds.
Question: Is there a way to mount this device to a wall
Answer: We recommend placing the device on a tabletop in an open space to avoid any interference
Question: Is this modem compatible with suddenlink
Answer: It will work at the lower speeds since it is capable of up to 2.5Gb but runs just fine as low as 100mbps/5mbps (down/up) with 32x8 channels. Suddenlink allows ARRIS SB6190 and the S33 is a superior upgrade.
Question: Can you use both ethernet ports at the exact same time
Answer: Update...... I have picked mine up from BestBuy and YES you can use both Ports at the same time. I have the 2.5 to my PC and the other port to my Asus Ax11000 router. Hope this helps.

Product features

Multi-Gigabit Download Speeds

Your multi-Gigabit home network will be ready with the SURFboard S33. A DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem. With a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port plus an additional 1 Gbps Ethernet port it's capable of combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. The S33 is the fastest modem in the SURFboard lineup delivering the fastest speeds and the latest technology without the premium rental cost.

Future-Proof Your Home Network

DOCSIS 3.1 technology enables multi-gigabit networking. Future-proof your home network with the S33 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem.

2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps Ethernet Ports

The S33 has two Ethernet ports: 2.5 Gbps plus a 1 Gbps capable of providing combined download speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. (Note, a 2nd IP address may be required by your cable internet provider to achieve 3.5 Gbps speeds.)

Save Money on Monthly Modem Rental Fees

When you purchase your modem, not only are you powering your home network with the latest technology, you can save money on modem rental fees. Own your modem and start saving today!

NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo C7000-Compatible with Cable Providers Including Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, Cox for Cable Plans Up to 400 Mbps | AC1900 Wi-Fi Speed | DOCSIS 3.0

NETGEAR

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Net gear AC1900 Dual Band Cable modem, Wi-Fi router is designed to meet DOCSIS 3.0 Specifications, making it 8x faster than DOCSIS 2.0. Router provides speeds of up to 1.9 Gbps. Ensure uninterrupted HD video streaming with industry's first 24x8 cable channel bonding, giving you the fastest download speeds, even during peak hours. Save up to 120 a year by eliminating Internet service provider rental fees. Ideal for Internet Cable services 200Mbps and above. Certified with XFINITY from Comcast, Cox, spectrum and more. Troubleshooting tip- when your modem router cannot access the Internet and your internet LED is on, register the cable Mac address or device Mac address of your modem router with your cable Internet provider. Wi-Fi Technology - 802.11 Ac.

  • Save monthly rental fees: Model C7000 replaces your cable modem and Wi-Fi router, saving you up to $168/year in equipment rental fees.
  • Built for fast speed: best for cable provider plans up to 400 Mbps speed. Modem technology: Engineered with 24x8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.0.
  • Fast Wi-Fi performance: Get up to 1800 square feet wireless coverage and 30 devices connected with AC1900 speed (up to 1900 Mbps).
  • Versatile connections: 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 USB ports give you fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices.
  • Modem technology: Engineered with 32x8 channel bonding and DOCSIS 3.1.
  • Note: Refer to page 102 of user guide for troubleshooting steps

User questions & answers

Question: What does "AC1200" mean
Answer: AC means that the router has support for the 802.11ac (or Wi-Fi 5) wireless networking standard, which offers fast WiFi network connections on the 5GHz frequency. 1200 means the max Mbps is 1200
Question: Does the box come with the necessary cables? (e.g. power cord and coax cable
Answer: It does come with a power cord and either net cable. A coax is not needed since cable company should connect their end directly to the modern.
Question: Does this modem have netgear genie
Answer: Hello Thank you for contacting us. It has Netgear Genie App Management. Any questions please contact us again. Thanks.
Question: I see many ppl asking about a router and answers say “modem only” but the description says wifi modem combo. what am i missing
Answer: The confusion is due to the illogical way Amazon links questions and answers to products. There are several different products listed on this one product page. Some are just modems, others are modem/router combos. Unfortunately, all the different products on this page share the same questions and answers which aren't relevant to one another. If the description on the product you have selected says it's a modem/router combo, then it's a modem/router combo. The people saying it's only a router are answering the question based on the product their viewing or have purchased. This is a problem that effects many products throughout the Amazon site.

Product features

Why Buy Your Own Modem with WiFi?

Save up to 168 Dollars/year

Eliminates monthly rental fees that can amount 168 dollars or more per year.

Better WiFi Performance

Get superior WiFi coverage and more features compared to cable provider modems with WiFi.

Works with Major cable Providers

Works flawlessly with Xfinity by Comcast, Spectrum, and COX.*

*Not compatible with Verizon, AT&T, CenturyLink, DSL providers, DirectTV, DISH, and any bundled voice services.

Built for Serious Speed

Supports cable internet plans with speeds up to 400Mbps ensuring fast, reliable internet speed for HD streaming and more.

Up to 1800 Sq. Ft. WiFi Coverage

Enjoy strong, reliable WiFi coverage thanks to amplified antennas and range-boosting Beamforming+ technology.

Seamless WiFi for up to 30 Devices

Intelligently selects between dual bands to minimize interference and maximize speed for your many smart wireless devices.

Built for Serious Streaming

Up to 1900Mbps wireless speed (AC1900), perfect for demanding HD streaming and gaming.

Easy 5 Minute Setup

Step 1: Plug your coax cable into the modem router.

Step 2: Activate by either

(a) connect an Ethernet cable to your computer and follow the on-screen setup, or

(b) call your cable provider to activate over the phone.

Four Gigabit Ethernet ports and two USB ports give you super-fast wired connections to your computer, printer, game box, storage drive, and other devices.

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