Placing your modem or router in a cabinet isn't the best idea. When setting up your home network, one of the first decisions you will have to make is where to put your modem or router. Many people choose to hide their modem or router in a cabinet, but is this really a good idea? Is It Ok To Put A Modem Or Router In A Cabinet? Placing your modem or router in a. Poor placement can weaken the signal, slow speed, and create dead zones. But this means internal space is actually going to be probably closer to 550mm which means. Position your router in a central, open location, avoiding corners, windows, and floors, and areas with bulky furniture and objects around it. This could be a closet, a utility room, or even a dedicated home office space.