(1) (Voice Over IP modem) A device that converts Internet-based voice service from the cable or telephone company to the user's telephones. Officially called an analog telephone adapter.

The modem is wired to the Internet via the cable company's coaxial cable, the telephone company's DSL phone line, Verizon's FiOS network or a satellite modem. The router is wired to the modem.

Modem speeds were slow anyway, so the limited bandwidth inherent in such a system was not much of a problem. Nowadays it’s easier to find an internet connection than a phone line in many places ...