One of the most important privileges in any home right now is access to the Internet. From communicating with loved ones, managing your finances, or processing orders online, you’ll need a stable internet connection almost every day. Also, more users have asked, “do you need a coax cable for internet?”
Coaxial cables have been used for internet access for quite a while and are still being used today. This guide will show you what a coax cable outlet is and whether you need it for internet access.
Read this guide to know more.
Table of Contents
What is a Coax Outlet?
Coax is slang for coaxial—a cable used to send and receive data, the Internet, voice, and video communications. Typically, coax cables are made of aluminum and copper, shielded by an insulator for stable signals and an outer plastic jacket. It has three main cable sizes:
- RG-6
- RG-11
- RG-59
Coax cables have been used in various ways; in residences, it’s typically used to carry internet connections and cable television (TV) signals. Almost every home in areas where coaxial cables are used for internet access has a coax outlet.
Can You Have Internet Access Without a Coax Cable?
Yes. There are a few internet options you can opt to get without using a coax cable. However, the first thing you’ll need to successfully do this on your home is to find another source of internet connection.
As mentioned earlier, most companies settle for coaxial cables as an internet outlet since they can provide internet and cable TV connection in the same line. However, due to innovations in internet connections in the 20th century, there are various ways to get internet for your home or business:
Fiber Optic
One of the most popular and effective internet connectivity options is a fiber optic connection. Like coaxial cables, fiber optic cables require an outlet through your residence or establishment running to a gateway or router to establish an internet connection. Also, they can provide speeds at a similar rate.
However, some companies—like Xfinity and others—will still require a coaxial cable on top of a fiber optic connection. This means you’ll still need a coax cable set up in your home or office if you settle for an Xfinity Internet plan. So, if you have no coax wall outlet Xfinity, try contacting Xfinity Customer Service to get your coax cable configured.
Hotspot Box (5GHz)
Another way to get an internet connection without a coax cable is via a 5 GHz hotspot box. These devices are great when you want access to the Internet on the go since you’ll only need to plug them into a wall socket and connect to the Internet through mobile data. It then works as a hotspot for all of your devices.
Brands like Huawei, T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T, and others have their hotspot box device. However, since it relies on mobile data for internet connections, its performance depends on the signal strength and your current location.
You can expect dips in your signal due to various factors, including weather, interferences, etc. There are some locations where you’ll consistently get a 5G connection. So, it’s best to research before picking a hotspot box.
Also, hotspot boxes will provide limited speeds compared to a coax and fiber optic connection, which is not recommended when you have many devices relying on it, or you’re engaged in high-bandwidth activities daily.
Final Thoughts
Setting up an Internet connection for your home is necessary for today’s lifestyle. It’s essential when connecting to your loved ones, viewing the latest news and stories online, streaming content on-demand, and many more activities.
If you don’t have a coaxial cable connection in your home, you can opt for a fiber optic connection or a hotspot box instead. However, you may still need to set up a coax cable when your internet provider requires it. Hopefully, this guide helps you know more about getting an Internet connection without a coax cable.