All in one = modem and router in same box SB6141 is modem only. I have its predecessor (6121) and it's been fine for the past few years. (a modem is like brakes on your car, they either work and all's well or they don't and you have a problem). I think Motorola makes decent modems. If you get that, you'll need a router too. I prefer separate units, but either separate or an all in one will both get you where you want to be. The all in one's I've worked with have been only mediocre at both tasks, I try to get better function with better separate components. DOCSIS is simply the standard used for over the cable communications. Think of it as a language, like Spanish, all the connections need to speak the same or compatible languages. As an average user, you will NEVER detect a difference in a such a small number version difference, no need to wait. DOCSIS 3.0 is reasonably current, capable, and works fine to speeds that are in excess of most people's connections.

If you Google Potential Connection Issue (Message ID: NAD-2902) It does appear to be some sort of issue with that Motorola modem an other models like it, the biggest problem with your model I saw was over heating. Suggestions, get a new modem if it constantly gives the error and no real issue is present.

Yes, I am talking wireless. Donna, I had a two wire, that worked GREAT for about 2 years for my daughter, and she upgraded, and I used hers. It died early this year. They gave me a "black box". I " installed " it on the 24th of last month. Worked GREAT, till yesterday afternoon. In fact, I was online yesterday morning, with no problem, but could not connect yesterday afternoon. Since I can connect here at the library, I am guessing, I was right when I reported my modem not working... Hopefully a replacement shows up on my front porch soon. Meanwhile, I stopped at the library on my way home from a bike ride with Mel (22 miles). Now, home, dinner, and I guess a bit of TV. Later Moni

I'm not sure I'm following your description but let me talk aloud about the basic layout. The internet signal comes into the house. Service provided by cable companies comes in on a coax cable. The first connection is to a modem, it's the translator that can speak both to the internet provider and home equipment. A PC can be connected directly to a modem (ethernet cable) if needed or if that's the only device in the house that needs a signal. Some internet modems are dual devices, acting as both modem and router, otherwise, there are two devices and they're connected with an ethernet cable - output of the modem leads to input of the router. Think of an old-fashioned telephone operator with a switchboard with plug holes and wires with plugs, putting the a wire of the incoming call into the correct hole for the desired destination routes the call. That's what a router does, it connects devices needing an internet connection to the modem. The connections can be wired (ethernet lines) or wireless (wifi). About four or fewer wired sockets are standard on most routers. If you need more, a ethernet switch does as you describe - a 4 node switch plugged into one socket in the router makes that one socket into 4 possible connections. Wireless connections for home use should be considered as limitless, more than anyone would ever need (though a lot of traffic from dozens of users can slow throughput). Ethernet switches are like an extension cord or surge protector with multiple sockets, where one cord plugged into the wall socket can provide say 3 or 4 sockets for use (so long as the circuit amperage isn't exceeded). Ethernet boxes just pass signals through and make one socket into multiple ones. They do nothing otherwise. As far as buying equipment, there's no need to go into a store. Amazon, NewEgg, and even Walmart are excellent sites selling wide selections of products and brands, competitive prices and (usually) generous and free return policies. I personally can't remember the last item I got from a store, it's been that long ago and rare. Did I cover your question or miss it?