Key component: broadband modem/router
You need a special modem to be able to use ADSL or cable Internet services. A wide choice of ADSL modems is available, many coming with useful features such as wireless networking and firewalls. They are not compatible with cable, though - cable subscribers have little choice but to accept the modem supplied by their cable company.
Broadband modems connect to your PC with either a USB or Ethernet connection. ADSL modems usually have one or the other type of connection, while most modern cable modems that we've seen feature both. Ethernet is preferable because Windows won't need any drivers to make it work, and multiple Ethernet ports allow it to double as a router.
