Which device is typically used to connect a computer to a broadband internet connection?

The device that is typically used to connect a computer to a broadband internet connection is a modem. A modem modulates and demodulates signals for digital data transmission, enabling communication over telephone lines, cable, or fiber connections. When you subscribe to a broadband service, your internet service provider usually provides you with a modem to connect to their network.

The modem acts as a bridge between your local network and the broader internet by turning the digital signals from your computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over various types of lines, and vice versa. For a computer to access the internet, it needs this conversion process that is facilitated by a modem.

While other devices like routers, switches, and access points play significant roles in a network, they function differently. A router directs traffic between devices on a local network and manages connections to the internet, a switch connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN), and an access point provides wireless connectivity to that network. However, their primary role is not to establish the initial connection to the internet, which is specifically the modem's responsibility.