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Question: What is a cable modem?

Answer: A cable modem is a new type of modem that hooks up your computer to a local cable TV line and provides internet access.

In a typical home setting, the cable wire has a splitter that carries one leg to the cable modem and the other leg to the television(s).

There are so many varieties of cable and telephone connections these days that it is a good idea to explore the options in your area and determine how much you are willing to spend for your monthly access fees.

Answer: Contact your cable company. This service option is not available in all areas.

Answer: If you have a cable modem and everything is working, you are connected to the Internet whenever your computer is on. Being connected doesn't mean that you are sending or receiving information - it's just there waiting on you. This is one of the advantages of cable over telephone access.

Answer: FAST! The actual bandwidth of a cable modem is up to 27 Mbps on the receiving end and about 2.5 Mbps on uploads or interactive responses. There is a catch, your speed will likely be around 1.5 Mpbs since your local cable company may not be connected on a line faster than a T-1. This is still FAST compared to a regular phone modem.

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