What device is commonly used to connect cable modems to computers?

The most common device used to connect cable modems to computers is an Ethernet switch or router. These devices facilitate communication between the modem and multiple computers or devices within a local network.

When a cable modem receives internet service, it typically connects to a router or switch via an Ethernet cable. The router, in turn, assigns local IP addresses to the connected devices, allowing them to access the internet simultaneously. A router also provides additional features such as firewall protection and network management, enabling better control over the network.

While a wireless access point could serve to connect devices wirelessly, it typically functions in conjunction with a router rather than directly connected to a modem, which makes it less common as a standalone connection device. A modem alone is not sufficient to connect multiple devices and lacks the necessary networking capabilities. Lastly, a network printer is used for printing tasks and does not serve to connect cable modems to computers, making it unrelated to the task of internet connectivity.