We explain how cable broadband works and when its likely to be a good option for you.
Cable broadband is brought into your home via the fibre optic cables used to supply cable TV. Because of this cable broadband is often offered in cable packages comprising TV channels and inclusive phone calls which can make it an economical option.
Cable broadband enables you to access the internet at much faster speeds than would ever be possible with a traditional dial up connection, enabling you to download large files, stream live broadcasts, have real time conversations and even make telephone calls and watch TV over your internet connection. Theoretically, cable broadband can reach higher speeds than its ADSL alternative; however it is also more susceptible to fluctuations in service which can eliminate this advantage.
If you choose to go with a cable broadband provider then it will be necessary for an engineer to come and install this service by running a wire from the main cable line in the street to an external cable box in your home which will then be attached to your television, phone and computer.
Although the spread of the cable network is increasing, it still only covers approximately 50% of the UK and so is still not available in more rural parts of the country. However, if you are in an area where cable broadband is enabled (check on the cable provider's site for covered postcodes) and want to have access to cable television, it can prove to be an economical way of connecting to the internet.
