Written by Daniel
Edited on
13 October 2025
·
14:39
What's free modem choice and what are the benefits?
From 30 January, you're free to choose your own modem in the Netherlands. This means that you can buy your own router to connect to your internet provider. A modem by Ziggo or an Experiabox by KPN is no longer required. In this article, we'll tell you what this means for you.
Your own modem
At the moment, you can only use the modems of your provider to connect to the internet. Providers don't offer support for your own equipment. You can only install these after the modem currently. With free modem choice, this changes. You'll be able to use your own router to connect to the internet too. Providers are obligated by law to support this. You won't have to use a device as much for a good connection. You'll have faster WiFi or internet throughout your entire house. Choose a router like the router on the side of this page.
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Faster and more advanced
Your own router with built-in modem can ensure a higher WiFi speed. Check the speed of your current modem and compare it to other modem routers. You can also connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously and add extra stations. Thanks to this, you can quickly go online in a larger part of your house and you'll have a stable connection everywhere. Routers also have advanced options. For example, a VPN server. This allows you to connect to your home network remotely too.
Better security
Your own modem ensures better security than the modem of your internet provider. If you use a router from your provider, your router can always be accessed via the internet. If the provider doesn't have a proper security system for this, chances are that you'll get hacked. With your own modem router, you're the one in charge. Your provider can't get to your modem. This reduces the risk of security problems.
Set up your own modem
The main disadvantage of your own router is the setup. Providers have to release their settings for free modem choice. You're responsible for the setup, your provider won't help you. If you choose a modem router by FRITZ!Box, you won't be bothered with this. These routers have the settings of all major providers built in. That way, you can easily select your internet provider during the setup.
Article by Daniel
Router Expert.
