Comcast, the largest cable operator in the US, has announced the launch of a new service that offers up to 2 Gbps upload and download speeds over existing coaxial cables. The service, called X-Class Internet, is powered by DOCSIS 4.0 technology, which enables multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds without sacrificing downstream bandwidth.
DOCSIS, which stands for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification, is a standard that defines how data is transmitted over cable networks. The latest version, DOCSIS 4.0, was developed by CableLabs, a non-profit research and development consortium of cable operators and vendors. DOCSIS 4.0 leverages advanced technologies such as Full Duplex and Extended Spectrum to optimize the use of spectrum and deliver more capacity and performance for customers.
Comcast claims to be the first ISP in the world to deploy DOCSIS 4.0, which can support up to 10 Gbps downstream and 6 Gbps upstream speeds in the future. The company says that X-Class Internet will enable customers to enjoy faster and smoother online experiences, such as video conferencing, gaming, streaming, cloud computing and more.
“We’re excited to be the first ISP in the world to deploy DOCSIS 4.0 technology and deliver on the promise of multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds for our customers,” said Tony Werner, President of Technology, Product, Xperience at Comcast. “X-Class Internet is a game-changer for consumers who want to enjoy the best of the internet at blazing-fast speeds.”
The service will be available in select neighborhoods of Colorado Springs, Atlanta and Philadelphia soon, and in more markets over the next few years. Comcast says that it will offer X-Class Internet as an option for its existing Xfinity customers, as well as new customers who sign up for its broadband services.
“Comcast’s DOCSIS 4.0 deployment is a testament to the power and flexibility of the cable network,” said Phil McKinney, President and CEO of CableLabs. “It demonstrates how cable operators can continue to innovate and evolve their networks to meet the growing demand for faster and more reliable broadband services.”
Comcast’s X-Class Internet service is expected to compete with other high-speed broadband offerings from rivals such as Verizon, AT&T and Google Fiber. However, unlike these providers, Comcast does not need to dig up streets or rewire homes to deliver its service, as it uses its existing coaxial infrastructure.
“DOCSIS 4.0 is not only about speed, but also about efficiency and reliability,” said Charlie Herrin, Chief Product Officer at Comcast. “It allows us to deliver more value to our customers without disrupting their lives or the environment.”
Relevant articles:
– Comcast starts squeezing 2 Gbps symmetrical internet speeds through decades-old coaxial cables, Engadget, October 12, 2023
– Comcast to Deliver Multi-Gig Symmetrical Speeds in World-First DOCSIS 4.0 Deployment, Business Wire, October 12, 2023
– Comcast DOCSIS 4.0 Rollout: What’s Under the Hood?, Telecompetitor, October 13, 2023
– Comcast to Deploy Industry’s First 10G Network Powered by DOCSIS 4.0 Technology, CableLabs, October 12, 2023