Cable Internet 15/08/2021 3 minute read
Today, internet is a necessity. It keeps us connected, informed, educated and entertained. While there are many forms of connection out there, some types are more popular.
Cable internet remains a common choice for many Americans. A long-trusted and simple form of broadband connection, it’s fast, efficient and available to nearly 90% of our population.
But just because it’s widely adopted, doesn’t mean it’s the best internet connection for you.
As industry experts, we know it can be tricky to choose.That’s why HomeLinkd clears it all up.
Like cable television, it’s not called cable for nothing.
Cable internet makes use of existing television cables to transmit data from your internet provider to your home. Since many Americans have TV access already, receiving internet through existing infrastructure is a simple, streamlined solution.
Television cables, also known as coaxial cables, span from the “cable modem termination system” (CMTS) to your modem at home. The CTMS is the piece of equipment housed on the premises of your Internet Service Provider.
Cable internet providers usually offer combined internet and TV packages. Sometimes they're also bundled with telephone deals.
Like, Spectrum, who provide a range of options and combos of both Internet and Television (Double Play) and Internet, Television and Telephone (Triple Play). Depending on the option you choose, you can get subscriptions like HBO and ESPN and access to unlimited nationwide calling in one go, without the fuss of contracts.
Now that you know cable internet is readily available, relatively fast and quite simple — how does it compare to other internet solutions in these categories, like futuristic fiber or inexpensive DSL?
Fiber is the best and fastest internet out there, but laying its large fiber optic cables is a massive logistic challenge, resulting in a slow takeover and a small availability for only 45% of the country. Cable, on the other hand, is more accessible and readily available.
Cable offers faster internet speeds than DSL, but DSL is cheaper and more suited for rural areas. DSL runs through existing telephone lines, which is why it’s kept inexpensive and consistent.
Satellite offers the most expensive internet connection, and it’s not the fastest connection around. In fact, cable beats this option in both speed and affordability. Because satellite is the most widely available form of connection due to its non-reliance on ground infrastructure, sometimes it's the only option in your area.
Advantages of Cable Internet
Widely available, with nearly 90% of Americans having access to it
Faster other options like DSL, dialup or satellite
Relatively affordable as it uses existing cable television lines to transmit data, and doesn’t require expensive logistics to build new infrastructure
Disadvantages of Cable Internet
If there are no coaxial cables in your area, it generally won’t be available
Slower than fiber, and because of the shared area cable, the connection speed is determined by the number of people in your neighborhood using the internet at once
Poses a higher security risk than DSL and dial-up, as it doesn’t require personal firewalls
What’s the takeaway?
If you’re considering your internet options, there’s a lot to think about. Those working with sensitive data, or in need of tight security, should consider a super secure option like DSL.
But, if you’re in an area with existing fiber (and are a sucker for elite internet with impressive download speeds) you may want to think about fiber for your needs.
And, if you’re in an urban setting in search of trusty, relatively fast, affordable internet – cable internet is the answer for you.
Click here to browse the best cable internet deals on our site.