How does a router work

[thebigrobo]

So i'm a internet noob when it comes to router and internet speeds. We are switching isps i had at&t and we are switching to TWC with at&t i was running a Ethernet cord from the TV box to my computer(which doesn't have a WiFi card) If a i buy a router can i run a Ethernet cord from that.
(also a general rundown of wtf a modem and a router is would be nice.)

 

[PsyKhiqZero]

Easiest way to look at it is this way.
A modem is a device that grants you access to the internet. A router creates a small network between connected devices. Usually a wireless router will have 4 Ethernet ports. All the wired and wireless devices will be in the same network the router creates. When a router is combined with a modem. The router acts as a gateway between the local network of devices hooked up to it and the internet.

Be careful when moving to a new provider. Make absolutely sure what devices they are giving you. If at all possible, buy your own equipment. If you have to rent it from them, ask for a modem only and buy your own router. Sometimes you have to take the all in one device they give you which will be a router with a build in modem. Sometimes such all in one devices are referred to as gateways.