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FAQ: Cable Internet Modems
What is a cable modem?
A device that gives you a broadband connection to the Internet using a cable TV network.
How does a cable modem work?
Cable internet companies that offer broadband internet service set aside a channel for the two-way exchange of data between computers at the main office and your personal computer. But before that can be done, your local cable operator must upgrade its network with digital and fiber-optic technology -- a time-consuming, expensive effort that not every operator has undertaken. To see whether you can receive cable modem service, click here.
How fast is cable modem broadband internet service?
It depends on how many people use the service at the same time. Most cable systems average around 1 mbps -- about 20 times faster than a 56.6-kbps dial-up connection. But that can theoretically slow down due to a cable modem service's "party line" nature. A modem can ferry information as fast as 5 mbps -- 100 times faster than a dial-up link -- under ideal conditions.
Test Your Cable Modem Internet Speed
What can a cable modem do for me that a dial-up Internet connection can't?
First, a cable modem offers an always-on connection to the Internet. There's no need to dial in to begin a session, so users don't have to worry about busy signals or wasting time. Second, going online with a cable modem won't tie up your telephone line like a dial-up connection will.
What else can a cable modem do for me?
Because it can process information at such high speeds, a cable modem broadband connection is opening up a new world of entertainment choices:
- A new generation of online games is merging cutting-edge technology with the magic of movies, animation and audio.
- On-demand news and other information let you put together The Daily Me -- an online newspaper or video show tailored to your interests and needs.
- Audio sound is as sharp as any CD. And digitized video images are crystal clear, giving you the ability to count the beads of sweat on Shaquille O'Neal's forehead.
How wide is cable modem usage in the U.S.?
Today, there are about six million installations in a nation where 70 million households subscribe to cable TV service. The research firm eMarketer estimates that the cable modem subscriber base will hit 10 million by 2003.
How much does it cost to install a cable modem?
It can range from $50 to $150 to cover cable wiring, the installation of an Ethernet card in your computer, and software configuration. Many cable operators run specials when they launch service in a particular area, so check the newspapers or call your local cable system.
How much will service cost me each month?
Probably from $30 to $50, which will include the modem-rental fee and unlimited Internet access. Features like extra mailboxes for e-mail may increase the price.
What equipment will I need for cable modem internet service?
When a cable modem is installed, a splitter is placed on the side of your home. The splitter separates the coaxial cable line serving the cable modem from the line serving the TV sets in your home. A separate coaxial cable line is then run from the splitter to the cable modem, which is located next to your computer.
Chances are that your cable company will lease you the cable modem. Then, your computer must be connected to the router, which an Ethernet cable can do. If your computer doesn't have an Ethernet card, you can buy one for about $40. But many cable companies include the card when they install your cable modem service.
Can I buy my own cable modem?
Yes, but they're hard to find. That, however, will change as more manufacturers win certification from CableLabs, an industry group that tests cable modems.
My cable operator uses the term "DOCSIS" when discussing cable modems. What's that?
DOCSIS stands for "Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification." It's a manufacturing standard for cable-modem companies established by CableLabs. A cable modem that meets the standard can be used by any cable company in the U.S.
Among the vendors marketing two-way cable modem products: 3Com, Cisco Systems, Com21, General Instrument, Motorola, Nortel Networks, Samsung Telecommunications America, Sony, Terayon Communication Systems, Thomson Consumer Electronics and Zenith.
Will the cable modem run on my computer?
The largest cable modem ISPs require you to have a Pentium computer with at least a 166 MHz processor; Windows 95 or higher (95, 98, NT 4.0 or 2000); 32 MB of RAM; and 125 MB of available hard-drive space.
Will a cable modem interfere with my cable TV channels?
No. The cable connection has its own special channel, and won't interfere with your TV set any more than CNN interferes with MTV.
Do I need cable TV service to get cable modem service?
Usually, no. However, cable companies typically offer cable modem services to cable TV subscribers at a discount, which can make a subscription to both more attractive.
I'd like to purchase a cable modem broadband connection, but my local cable TV operator doesn't offer it? When will that change?
Broadband is growing at a fast pace, and service may be available in your area in a few weeks or months, depending on how far your local cable operator's upgrade project is progressing.
Who are @Home and Road Runner?
Recognizing that they knew far more about the television business than the Internet, leading cable TV companies pooled their resources a few years ago to create Internet service providers (ISPs) that can offer cable modem services.
The largest cable ISP was @Home, which will cease operations on February 28, 2002. Another ISP, Road Runner, was created by Time Warner Cable and MediaOne, which AT&T recently purchased.
Cable companies serving 80% of all North American households signed exclusive service agreements with @Home or Road Runner. The fallout of the @Home bankruptcy is ongoing and the future of cable modem ISPs is unclear. AOL and Microsoft are both eyeing this field and could be big players in the future.
Can a business get cable modem broadband service?
Perhaps, depending on where it's located. Cable TV companies primarily serve residential areas. But if the local cable company's lines pass a business or commercial establishment, chances are good that it can get a cable modem. Again, the best way to find out is to call the local cable operator.
Can I connect more than one computer to a cable modem?
Yes, but you have to set up a home network.
Can someone break into my computer files through my cable modem?
Conceivably, someone could read, delete or alter files on your personal computer. A hacker could hijack your computer to send e-mail with your name on it. Or somebody could crash your computer or erase your programs. But taking a few simple precautions -- the online equivalent of locking your front door -- will keep you safe from all but the most determined criminals.
For more information, check out our security section.
Can you list some of those precautions?
- Get a good anti-virus program and have it scan your computer each week.
- If you have a Microsoft computer, turn off the file-sharing function.
- Don't run a program or open an e-mail attachment without running a virus scan.
Then there are firewalls, which monitor your Internet connection and refuse to let anything suspicious into your computer. Firewalls come in hardware and software varieties. Hardware firewalls are boxes that you plug your computer into. Many broadband routers and modems now come with built-in firewall protection.
Software firewalls, like BlackICE Defender, are programs that you download from the Internet to your personal computer. These applications scan for hackers, just as anti-virus programs look for bugs that can disable your PC.
