Do You Need a Cable Connection for High Speed Internet?

If the only high-speed Internet access provider in your area is a cable company, they will require that your home or office be connected to the cable company via a television cable. They require special hardware in the area to be able to transmit Internet data over television wire. Cable companies have installed this hardware in many neighborhoods. If cable is available in your area, the local cable company representatives will let you know if you call them.

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a high-speed Internet service that does not require a cable connection. However, it does require a telephone line. DSL does not interfere normal phone operation and you can send and receive phone calls while the Internet is connected.

In some areas, fiber-optic cables can be wired directly to your home or office and used to connect you to high-speed Internet. This does not require a cable connection, but there is very limited availability.

Satellite dishes can be used to connect your home or office to the Internet. This does not require any cable connection at all, and may be available in remote places that lack other service options. Satellite Internet requires a satellite dish, usually provided when signing up for service, and a clear view of the sky.