How Does Cable Modem Service Work?

Here's a simple explanation of how cable modem service from a cable company can offer TV and internet access using the same cable. The information that you download from the internet to your computer uses the same amount of space on the cable that a TV channel signal uses. When you send out information to the internet it uses even less space. That's because more often than not, people download a greater amount of information from different sites than they upload.

In order for you to access the internet, you need a cable modem and an account with a cable provider. Cable modems are provided by the cable company for a fee or you can purchase your own. The cable will connect to the modem box and then the modem box is connected to the computer using either a network (CAT-5) or USB cable. You can have the cable modem connect directly to a wired or wireless network router in order to share the Internet connection with other computers.

Single Computer Setup

Wireless Router Setup

Cable Usage

In general, cable Internet connections are very fast. In areas where a cable company services a large number of users on the cable, the internet speed will drop slightly. Some people think if you're far away from the cable company, you'll have a slower speed. The only thing that affects the internet connection speed is the amount of users on one channel, not how far you are away from the cable company.

Pros:

  • Very fast connection speeds
  • Can share internet access through routers
  • Most cable servers allow remote access so you can work on your home PC from other locations
  • Your internet connection is always on
  • In most cases you can get cable modem service if you can get cable TV service

Cons:

  • If your cable goes out for any reason, you lose Internet access
  • Tends to be expensive in many areas of the country were states allow only one cable company to cover fixed territories eliminating competitive pricing
  • Prices are generally expensive for small to medium businesses
If you're ready to try cable, here's an explanation of the process on how to set up cable. If you’re unsure of whether you want cable or not, you can contact ROZtech Computer Services, and our trained technicians can explain in more detail the pros and cons of cable modem service.



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