Definition of a Cable Modem

Whether you are using a broadband or dial-up connection to surf the Internet, you will need a modem, which sends and receives signals between your computer and your service provider. If you subscribe to broadband cable Internet, you will need a cable modem that connects to a coaxial cable service in your home or office in order to reach the Internet.

Cable Internet

Most cable television providers offer Internet service along with their television services. Cable Internet uses existing cable television lines to transmit data.

Cable Modem

Cable modems are devices that connect computers to the Internet via coaxial cable lines. Some cable modems are also equipped with wireless antennas so that they can connect to computers without the use of Ethernet cables.

Speeds

Cable modems can access the Internet at speeds of about 30 Mbps. Cable Internet service providers have tiered pricing for different levels of bandwidth, or speed.

Advantages

Cable Internet generally offers faster Internet speeds than competing broadband services like WiMax and DSL, and cable Internet can be bundled with cable television service at a discounted price.

Disadvantages

While cable Internet does offer high speeds, these speeds are not guaranteed. Bandwidth can be reduced significantly depending on the Internet use in any particular service area. To prevent this, some cable Internet service providers put caps on downloads and other bandwidth usage restrictions.

References

• CNET: CNET's Guide to Choosing the Right Broadband Connection

About the Author

Joey Perez has been a professional writer since 2006 and has been a home theater designer for over eight years. In 2006, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in theology from Zoe Bible College. His work is featured on Bestinclass.com and Faithclipart.com.

Photo Credits

• mta cable mode image by IKO from Fotolia.com