Which is better? A cable modem connection via Ethernet or USB

I am going to buy a Cable Modem. The new ones allow hookup via either USB or 10/100 Ethernet connection. I have both a network card and a USB port on my computer. Which is the better way? The sales people have told me conflicting stories. One will say an Ethernet connection is faster, another will say a USB connection is faster. Which of the two will provide a faster connection for a cable modem? Are there any other differences?

This question was answered on December 3, 2001. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

My research indicates that an Ethernet connection is a better choice.

USB was developed as a way to connect external Peripherals while Ethernet is for Networking It is a bad idea especially if you have other USB devices for your computer I've heard that the computer that's connected to the modem via USB drops the connection sometimes after printing (in this case the printer was connected to USB) With an Ethernet connection, 100mbps or even 10mbps connection will be much more stable than a USB connection However, the real limitation is the bandwidth through the cable Your max bandwidth with a cable modem is about 2-3mbps, as long as you have at least a 10mbps network card, you'll be fine

Another advantage of Ethernet over USB is that it doesn't have a certain "uploading", "downloading" rate like USB.

And also heard from users that an Ethernet connection is faster.

Hope this helps!

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Posted by Phoenixaz of Chandler-Gilbert Community College on December 3, 2001

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