Why do my modems go bad?

I have to ask for a new modem from my isp every year or so. I've probably gone through 5 or 6 of them in the last 4/5 years. The latest one I'm using right now is starting to go in and out. It loads web pages for a while, than can't load them after wards. Even though all the modem lights are lit. Yet another modem has gone bad for me. Why does this happen? None of my other pc equipment has gone bad during the years so often. I'm sick of ordering new modems from my isp. They take forever to ship them... Quick question related to modems too.

Can I buy my own modem for use on my isps internet service? Or do I have to use their modems? I wouldn't mind buying a top quality modem myself if I had the chance to do so.

 

About a year ago, my modem took a hit in an lightening storm and blew. I called my ISP and since it was just out of warranty (of course :-D) they offered to sell me one. Since, I did not want to wait a week or two for them to ship it, I asked if there were any stores I could possibly buy one from and they were able to direct me to a store (only one store carried them) and when I called they only had one left. I asked the clerk to put it aside and I would be in to pick it up.

I'm glad I bought my own because I've heard about a lot of problems with the brand of modem the ISP provides and I did used to have a LOT of problems with that brand myself and I haven't had any problems with this new one.

So, maybe you could ask your ISP is they sell any branded modems in stores.