Cable Internet Hardware, Software, and Plans
Cable is fast becoming known for Internet access more than TV. For the first time ever there are more Cable subscribers paying for Internet than for video or TV! Cable Internet access allows people to use e-mail, and browse the internet, over a local cable television system. Cable TV services provide the connection to subscribers in the same way they offer cable TV, and services are activated in the same way.
Internet subscribers use a cable modem plugged into both the computer and the cable connection in the home or office. Cable modems can be internal or external to their computer, but internal equipment for cable Internet access is only available for desktop computers. Laptop users will need an external modem. When searching for cable Internet service, you may find cable modems listed for sale at various prices, but never purchase one without checking with a cable Internet provider first. Many offer modems as part of the subscription package or as part of a special offer. You may also be able to lease a cable modem from the company and have a monthly fee added to your cable bill. But, with the price of modems going down it could save a great deal of money to have your own.
Cable Internet speeds are comparable to DSL and other broadband systems, but depending on your equipment, you may need an upgrade to take advantage of the full speed potential of your cable Internet access. This type of broadband Internet service connects a large number of users on the same system – for example your next door neighbor! So you may experience slower connection speeds during peak usage times. These slower connection speeds are normal and not a fault of software or hardware.
Cable Internet packages often come bundled with anti-virus software, multiple e-mail accounts, and sometimes “speed boost” programs that can help make your online experience run faster. A recent addition to these features is home networking. Some cable companies include wireless networking equipment in their plan to allow computers to share a single Internet connection using a wireless base station or router. The router is plugged into the computer that is physically connected to the cable system and receivers plugged into computers in other parts of the home.
Because cable Internet access uses the same infrastructure that cable television is delivered on, cable Internet service is often best purchased as part of a subscription package combined with cable TV. Many cable companies charge higher rates for cable Internet access alone, but offer more affordable rates for a package deal. Some cable companies also have plan structures that offer higher connection speeds. One company offers three plans at varying speeds, the high end version costing around $55 a month.
One disadvantage is Cable Internet service can slow down during peak usage hours. These commonly happen in mid-morning hours, and again just after the school and work days end.
Depending on your location, you may only have one company to choose from, so you may need to compare prices with your local DSL provider and dial-up services to find the best deal for you. In larger cities with multiple cable companies, the search for good cable Internet access is easier, but much still depends on your exact location. Your local cable representative can tell you if you live in an area serviced by that particular company and many cable providers have “service finder” tool on their Web sites that can give you the same information.
