comcast is now considerably closer to making multi-gigabit wired internet a reality. The company successfully tested the first 10G modem capable of multigigabit speeds. The prototype built by Broadcom used the full duplex DOCSIS 4.0 standard to provide download and upload bandwidth of up to 4 Gbps. For context, maintaining this performance would allow you to download all Call of Duty: Vanguardrecommended PC install size (61GB) in just over two minutes.
Although this was a lab test, it is still a significant step forward. The company previously achieved these speeds using a virtualized system, and as of October 2020 it was managing ‘only’ 1.25 Gbps with new DOCSIS technology. The new format is notable not only for improving downstream speeds, but also for enabling symmetrical uploads and reducing lag.
Telecommunications didn’t offer a timeline for when you might see client-ready DOCSIS 4.0 multigigabit modems. You may have to make do with 2Gbps service for now. However, the bigger question is whether or not you will be able to use a connection of more than 4Gbps anytime soon. You’ll need a fast route over the internet, of course, but there’s also the issue of Comcast’s data limits. While it’s not surprising if Comcast raised or even waived the limits for multigigabit users, it can be difficult to take advantage of the larger data channel if any limits discourage sustained use.
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