What is Cable Internet & How is it Different from Others?

Discover all about cable internet and learn how it compares to other connection types.

sheryl Dunphy Senior Content Writer

Last Updated 16 April 2025

In an age where absolutely nothing can go by without the internet, many people fail to understand why their connection speeds differ from the ones their neighbors have. Well, this ends now.

The two most widely used internet services in urban America are cable and DSL due to their traditional infrastructures, i.e. television lines and phone lines respectively, and the two fastest internet services in the United States are cable and fiber. This statement makes one wonder if cable internet is the ultimate solution at this point.

This blog post is written to explore just that.

What We Discovered

You can improve your cable internet’s performance by:

Cable internet transmits signals through cable lines, which are then converted into wireless signals with the help of a router.
It is more widely available than fiber internet.
This connection type is reliable, fast, and affordable.

What is Cable Internet?

Cable internet, like cable TV, connects your home to your internet service provider (ISP) through a sophisticated network of coaxial cables. These cable networks establish a link between your ISP and your modem, allowing you to create your own Wi-Fi network or connect your device directly via an Ethernet cable.

Pros

Fast download speed that can go up to 1,000 Mbps
Very reliable
Easy to setup
Fast download speed that can go up to 1,000 Mbps
Vast availability

Cons

The faster the speed, the costlier it gets
Slow speeds during peak hours
Some ISPs don’t sell standalone internet plans and you might have to buy a bundle deal

How does Cable Internet Work?

To access cable internet, you will be required to have two things: a modem inside your home and a coaxial wire or cable running from the modem to your internet service provider's CMTS (Cable Modem Termination System). In simple words, cable internet uses a coaxial cable to link your modem to the CMTS.

Here is a vocabulary guide for you to understand the process in a better way:

Coaxial cable – allows data transfer over long distances. It also connects your modem to the ISP’s CMTS even if the provider’s hub is far from your house.

CMTS – a piece of hardware residing in your ISP’s facility.

Modem – small hardware device inside your house that enables your PC to communicate with the ISP’s network.

How is Cable Internet Different than Other Connections?

Fiber Internet

Fastest among all internet connection types
Offers symmetric speeds
The most reliable connection type
Unaffected by weather conditions
Limited availability

DSL Internet

Employs phone lines to provide internet access
Easy to install
Remains stable even during peak hours
Cheaper than cable internet

Satellite Internet

Most widely available internet connection
Most expensive internet connection due to high infrastructure cost
Slower speeds compared to other connection types
May be affected by severe weather conditions

Is Cable Internet a Good Option?

Yes, cable internet is a great broadband service for those who want to enjoy high-speed internet while paying moderate amounts. However, if any other connection type works better for you, you should go for it after deeply analyzing your requirements.

You can call us at (855) 573-1435 for professional guidance and to find out all about the available internet providers and plans in your area.