DOCSIS

Most home networks fall under one of three categories: ISP-supplied gateway (modem and wireless router combo) with optional wireless extenders Discrete modem and a standalone wireless gateway / router (coupled with optional network extenders, or, a Wi-Fi system) Discrete modem, discrete wired router, and switches / access points All three choices have their pros and cons, with the first option being preferred by consumers who are not tech-savvy to begin with. In that case, the customer usually pays a monthly rental fee to the ISP. The maintenance of the gateway (including firmware updates) is handled by the ISP too. Vendors such as Arris and Netgear have tried to play in this market segment with modem-router combo products in retail for direct purchase by the consumers. Such products have typically...