How to Set Up Cable

Are you ready to make the move from a dial-up internet connection to cable? If so, then you probably want to learn a little about it.

What is Cable?

It is a broadband internet frequency that transmits data over a high-speed line. The modem is set to where the hook-up is in your wall.

USB or Ethernet

In order to be able to have a high-speed internet connection, you have to make sure that you have either a USB or ethernet connector in your computer. Ethernet works like a phone jack but wider. A USB is a flat plug and is about 1/2 inch long.

If you don't have either the ethernet or USB, then you need to buy a network interface card (NIC) and install it.

Note: Newer computers will have both a USB and a NIC card. You can buy NIC cards at your local computer store.

Cable Connection

When you're ready to set your cable up, call your internet service provider (ISP) to set up an appointment. First, they will check to see if you have a cable line.

If you have an existing cable for your TV, the technician will put a splitter into the line and run a separate cable to wherever your main computer is. If you don't have an existing line, the cable company will need to run a line to your house or office.

Once the cable company runs a line to your computer, they will then install a cable modem that you either rent from them or you bought previously from your local computer store.

USB Drivers

Next, the technician will run an ethernet line from the modem to your computer. If you don't have ethernet, but you do have a USB, they'll put a disk in your computer to download drivers, and then plug the USB from the computer to the modem. The USB requires drivers for Windows to recognize it.

Ethernet Connection USB Connection

When you put the modem on the USB, Windows will find a new device and load it from the disk that the technician put in the computer. Usually, you keep the CD as a backup in case you need it in the future.

Getting Online

Once this is done, the technician will see if you can get online. If your computer has viruses, adware, spyware or anything that keeps you from getting online, it is not their responsibility to fix it.

Once you're connected, the technician will set up your email account. In most cases, you will be charged an installation fee along with your monthly charges.