 | Cable Modem: $40-$90 |
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 | Cable Modem/Router Combination: $80-$200 |
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| A cable modem provides internet access to home or business computers via a cable television line. Cable modems generally are capable of faster speeds than DSL or dial-up modems. Most cable modems are external, although rare internal modems are available. | | |
| Typical costs: | - A cable modem costs $40 -$90. For example, Circuit City, an online-only retailer, sells the standalone Motorola SURFboard SB5105 cable modem for $60.
- Some cable modems are combination devices with routers, which create a wireless network. These devices cost $80 -$200. The more expensive units allow for faster rates of transfer. Amazon, for example, sells the Motorola SURFboard SBG900 DOCSIS 2.0 cable modem and router combo for $120.
- Some internet service providers sell cable modems and provide them with installation of the DSL service. These modems range from $50 -$150. AT&T sells cable modems for $75 -$100 with their service.
What should be included: | - In the box with a cable modem should be a power supply, a cable cord, a software CD, and an owner's manual.
Additional costs: | - Cable internet service costs vary depending on speed. Residential and business service costs $30 -$160 per month, on average, across the country. The higher end of the price range is for faster transfer speeds. Nationwide internet service providers include AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, Time-Warner Cable and Charter Communications.
- To create a wireless network in a home or office, a wireless router is required. Individual routers cost $20 -$180 depending on the signal strength it creates. Amazon sells a range of routers for both business and residential needs.
- While customers can save by installing modems themselves, some internet service providers can send technicians to install the devices. AT&T, for example, charges $140 to install a cable modem.
Discounts: | - Internet service providers regularly offer discount prices on internet service bundled with other services such as phone or cable television. Qwest has high-speed internet service starting at $15 per month when it is packed with phone service.
- Verizon provides a free cable modem to customers who sign up for the cable internet service. While the modem is free, there is a $20 fee to ship the device.
Shopping for a cable modem: | - PC Magazine provides a comprehensive networking guide for consumers, both business and residential.
- Top Ten Reviews provides a comparison guide of top-selling cable modems and routers.
- Fry's Electronics, with stores in nine Western and Midwestern states, has regular deals on networking products.
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Article updated June 2011 |
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