How Does Cable Internet Work?

With the age of the Internet, more people are searching for the fastest and most reliable connection. Cable Internet is the best choice, as it is much faster than DSL. It operates on the same network that cable television works on and is very reliable. As long as the cable service is maintained and the computer is plugged into the modem, the Internet is always on.

Cable Internet is transmitted from the local cable company to a channel on the television that is reserved for the transmission of data. It works by transmitting the signal from the cable modem termination system at the cable company to a cable modem box in the customer's home.

• Data transmissions, both upstream and downstream, are received on the customer's cable modem. The cable modem, which is a small box placed inside the home, receives the signal from the cable company.


• Outside the home, a coaxial cable connects the cable signal from the cable line outside to the inside of the home, by being plugged into the cable modem.


• Then, in order to connect to the Internet, a USB cord must be inserted into the cable modem on one end and into the USB port on the computer on the other end. Once these connections are made between the computer and the cable modem, Internet access is available. 

Cable Internet is faster than dialup and DSL, offering connection speeds up to 10 times faster. It uses a broadband connection and is ideal for those that like to play games online or any other reason that calls for an uninterrupted Internet connection.