Kabelnettet

Kabelnettet is a telecommunications infrastructure comprising coaxial and fiber-optic cables used to deliver multiple services to homes and businesses. Historically associated with cable television, Kabelnettet has evolved to provide broadband internet and voice services, often using hybrid fiber-coax (HFC) networks or, in new deployments, fiber-to-the-home (FTTH). The term is commonly used in Norwegian and other Scandinavian contexts to describe local or regional cable networks.

Key components include a central headend where television signals are received and processed, a distribution network of cables and fiber, signal amplification and tapping equipment, and customer premises equipment such as set-top boxes and cable modems. The network supports two-way communication and typically employs the DOCSIS standard for data transmission, enabling high-speed internet over the same infrastructure used for television.

Deployment patterns vary by region. In many urban areas the backbone uses fiber backhaul with coaxial distribution to homes, while newer builds may bring fiber directly to the premises. Kabelnettet carries television channels, radio, broadband internet, and voice services, and often interfaces with other access networks. Regulatory frameworks in some countries require or encourage open access to the physical network to support competition among service providers.

Historically, cable networks emerged in the mid-20th century to deliver local TV and gradually expanded to broadband. In Scandinavia, Kabelnettet has been a common platform for TV and internet services, particularly before widespread FTTH deployment. Today, Kabelnettet remains in operation in many regions, often as part of a mixed network strategy that emphasizes reliability and incremental upgrades.