New modems
New modems
Modems are no longer needed; they’ve evolved into routers. A modem functions as a modulator-demodulator, changing digital information into analog signals and back for transmission over traditional phone lines. ADSL leverages unused bandwidth with digital data on those same copper cables, meaning you won’t need a modem unless you rely on dial-up internet.
Uh, no. Former cable internet/tv/phone installer, and current systems installation guy here. Anything a cable company provides still uses a modem. the usual recommendation is to use a separate modem and router for reliability, flexibility, and future expansion. DOCSIS is one of the largest protocols and is used by a huge amount of Cable providers for internet- Providers such as Time Warner, Cox, Comcast, etc. They all use a DOCSIS cable modem (or often modem/router combo if you lease the equipment from them). In a lot of markets ADSL (AT&T, for example)fiber is unreliable trash or still unavailable at modern accepted speeds, so you see very hot competition from cable providers. With Comcast, I use a standalone Arris SB6183 cable modem into a separate wireless router and switch, that way I own my equipment and do not have a monthly lease/service fee, or need to be locked in to a providers wireless router arrangement and management.
DOCSIS uses digital technology. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DOCSIS
It doesn't rely on a modem. A modem is a device that changes digital data into a format for analog transmission. You might have learned to refer to it as a modem, but "cable modem" is just a marketing term. It's not truly a modem, though it functions more like a network bridge or router.
It remains a modem because it changes and receives radio signals sent through fiber or coax. It works as a network bridge in its operation.
Cable employs a modem, but it's unclear why Linus doesn't mention it—many people actually rely on them for their service.