Chapter 18. Using a Cable Modem


SOME OF THE MAIN TOPICS IN THIS CHAPTER ARE

How Cable Modems Work

How Cable Modems Differ from xDSL Broadband Access

The Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification ( DOCSIS )

Which Should You Choose ”Cable or DSL ?

The two most popular methods for connecting home users and many small businesses to the Internet are DSL and cable modems. Both have their advantages as well as disadvantages. The preceding chapter explained how DSL works, and in this chapter you will learn about how cable modems work, as well as how they differ in many respects from DSL.

Although a cable modem connection might work for a home user or a small business, you must again think of the service provider before committing your network's connectivity to the Internet. Some cable companies are just great, providing quick resolution to problems, and others are not so great. Again, if you're not getting a good response (or better yet, response time) from your cable company at home, you might want to consider other options before using the same company as a link for your small business.

Note

Depending on where you live, you might not be able to get Internet access using a cable modem. Not all cable companies have the equipment necessary to provide this service. In that case you should consider using xDSL for a high-speed connection to the Net. Or you may live in a metropolitan area that offers both services. If that is the case, I suggest you read this chapter and Chapter 17, "Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL) Technology," and make your decision based on the topics covered. If you live in an area where neither service is available, you are out of luck, because "two tin cans and a string" uses amplitude modulation instead of digital signaling. Just seeing whether you're paying attention!

Another factor you might think about is the actual cost for cable modem services. Because many cable companies are now trying to maximize their revenues , since the cable TV market is pretty much saturated , you might find that you can get a special deal when subscribing to both cable TV and Internet access. If anything, you may be able to get a few months of cable-modem access at a reduced price.



Upgrading and Repairing Networks
Upgrading and Repairing Networks (5th Edition)
ISBN: 078973530X
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2003
Pages: 434

flylib.com © 2008-2017.
If you may any questions please contact us: flylib@qtcs.net