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What is cable internet?

David Anders Last updated: May 27, 2021

Cable internet, much like cable TV service, uses coaxial cables that connect from your home through a modem receiver to a nearby node, and then to your internet service provider. The modem receives electrical signals, which then convert into internet service, similar to how a cable TV box receives a signal and displays an image.

Is cable internet right for your home?

Cable internet is a popular option for many homes as providers typically offer a range of speed options and high data allowances to support streaming, gaming online and other internet activities on multiple devices. Along with numerous internet plan options, cable companies are also likely to have TV and phone options available as well, and often come with monthly savings when bundled together.

What cable internet is not ideal for – Uploading files

If your household will be using the internet to work from home or to learn remotely, cable internet is not as ideal of an option as fiber internet. Though cable internet can deliver fast upload speeds, upload speeds are commonly much slower. Slow upload speeds can hinder performance when making a video call or uploading large files, such as homework.

Top cable internet providers of 2021 

Cable internet providers

*Pricing per month plus taxes for length of contract. Additional fees and terms may apply. Pricing varies by location and availability. All prices subject to change at any time. May or may not be available based on service address. Last updated 02/24/21.

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Best cable internet customer satisfaction ratings

While many cable internet providers increased their satisfaction scores in the past year, none received anything above what could be considered a “passing” grade. This isn’t uncommon as cable providers are somewhat notorious for poor customer satisfaction, but the year-over-year increases from many providers indicate a continued effort to better customer satisfaction in the industry.

Source: ACSI

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Cable vs. DSL vs. fiber

Cable vs. DSL: While cable internet is integrated into the cable television infrastructure, DSL is integrated into the telephone line infrastructure. Both share similar availability, but a coaxial cable supports higher bandwidth than a telephone line, which gives cable internet a significant speed advantage over DSL internet. With greater speeds, you can stream and search the internet with multiple devices at a time.

Cable vs. fiber: Coaxial cables are more common and less expensive than fiber optic cables. This makes cable internet more widely-available and sometimes lower-priced than fiber optic internet service. Cable can also be more convenient as it is already installed in most homes, as opposed to fiber. While cable tends to provide faster internet speeds than DSL, fiber is known for providing faster and more reliable internet. One more thing to consider when comparing fiber vs. cable? Although fast, fiber only covers approximately 41% of the country. Cable, on the other hand, covers close to 90%.

Cable internet availability and coverage 

Cable internet is the most widespread internet service option in the United States, with DSL as a close second. Although fiber internet is the most desirable option, it is also the least available. 

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Cable internet FAQs

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