Motorola’s SURFboard DOCSIS 3.0 SB6141 is an example of a cable modem that’s compatible with Time Warner Cable’s Internet service. It works fine with Macs and sells for about $100.
A reader, Gloria, writes, "I read an article you had a while back that stated that one could purchase a modem instead of renting one from Time Warner — unless one had a Mac. I have a MacBook Pro and would love to stop renting a modem. I looked at TW's list of modems for purchase but couldn't tell if it would work with my Mac."
For the most part, cable modems and routers are platform agnostic. That means they’re meant to provide Internet access whether you’re using a Mac, Windows PC, Linux or mobile devices enabled with Wi-Fi. Cable modems and routers typically deliver Internet via an Ethernet connection or Wi-Fi. As long as your computer has that port or Wi-Fi, you should be in business no matter what kind of computer you have.
Some Internet service providers may distribute software specific to Windows or Mac (most likely both), but it’s unlikely that using a Mac would be a barrier to getting online.
In this space every week, we’ll define a tech term, offer a timely tip or answer questions about technology from readers. Email ogallaga@statesman.com
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