What are those DOCSIS numbers and what do they mean for your cable internet? Here's what to know and why you should rely on DOCSIS 3.1 for now.

Most ISPs charge between $10 and $15 monthly for equipment -- you should be able to see the fee on your ISP's broadband ...

Best modem-router combo Arris SURFboard SBG8300 gateway $ ... examine the specifications such as internet connection compatibility (e.g., cable, fiber, etc.), speed capability, coverage area ...

and a router, which forwards traffic to the modem and distributes responses to the requesting machines. If the cable modem/router has Wi-Fi, it is a "wireless gateway" (see cable/DSL gateway).

An Ethernet cable plugs into the LAN port of your router or modem/router combo. The LAN ports are used to connect devices ...