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Cable Internet Access

Broadband Cable Internet

One of the major players in the high-speed Internet market is the cable Internet connection.  Many Internet users are turning to cable because of the convenience, quality and efficiency.  Cable modems are not distance sensitive, like their DSL counterparts, so your connection will be optimal no matter where you are located.  They do not require much installation, unlike satellite and they provide an “always on” connection, so you never have to dial up and wait around.

How Broadband Cable Works

The cable Internet modem works in almost the same way your TV does, except that the end result is a Web page, not a TV program.  The cable that brings programming into your television provides a set amount of storage or space for the programming to be transmitted through.  This space is known as “bandwidth” and it is capable of carrying hundreds of programs or websites to the user.  Now, each time you check your e-mail or click on a link to another website, it’s almost like changing the channel on your TV.

Some of the main questions people have regarding any kind of high-speed Internet connection have to do with: speed, cost, reliability and security.

Speed - Cable modems can reach 10-20 Mbps, but they usually download slower than that, depending on how many users are logged on. Equipment can also be rented - usually at an inexpensive rate, and at times cable modems are free after rebates for new customers.

Cost - Promotions for several of the cable internet services found on the site often involve a free cable modem (Comcast, Charter, Cox). Many cable providers also will give you the option of renting a cable modem as an alternative choice to using your own (usually for around $6 a month). The cost for purchasing all of the equipment (the cable modem) can range from around $90-$300, plus the monthly cost of the connection from your provider.

Reliability - Almost always a reliable connection.  The main disadvantage of cable Internet connections, is the fact that one cable provides service to so many.  When a lot of people are logged on at the same time, it causes the connection to be slower.  However, this is rarely a significant problem.

Security - As with all Internet connections, a cable modem is not 100% secure.  However, there are steps to ensure the most security possible.  Using firewall software, having good password protection and turning off services that don’t need to be running are good starting points. 

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News Articles on Broadband Cable

Comcast Increases High-Speed Internet Upstream Speeds for Customers

Comcast has announced that it will offer its Performance and Performance Plus residential customers increased upstream speeds for high-speed Internet at no additional cost.

Thomson to Provide DTAs to Comcast

Thomson has announced the finalization of a purchase agreement with Comcast to supply the cable company with digital-to-analog (DTA) adapters, a one-way device that enables cable operators to move quickly and cost-efficiently to all-digital infrastructures by delivering digital-quality video and audio service to existing analog cable customers.

Orlando Television Stations Test DTV

Twelve television stations located in Central Florida's Orlando market were among the first to test digital signals in preparation for next year's digital conversion.

FCC Expects Increase in DTV Complaints

According to a Congressionally-mandated five-year strategic plan issued last week, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expecting to receive an increase in complaints related to the digital television transition.

Cox Communications to Carry HD Hallmark Movie Channel

Cox Communications and Crown Media Holdings, Inc., owner and operator of the Hallmark Channel and the Hallmark Movie Channel, have announced a multi-year agreement granting Cox Communications the right to carry the high definition version of the Hallmark Movie Channel that was launched in April.

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