A cable modem is a hardware device that allows a computer to access the Internet through a cable ststem at much high speeds than through the traditional telephone modems. Most cable modems are external devices that have two connections, one to the cable wall outlet and the other to a computer or router. Although the speed of service varies with many factors, download speeds of up to 6 Mbps are typical. Cable providers are developing even higher-speed services.
A cable modem performs all network-specific functions. It also connects via a standardized Ethernet port to numerous devices consumers can buy, including PCs, game consoles, digital media devices and wireless routers.