System for supporting multiple internet service providers on a single network

摘要

Described are methods and apparatus that allow cable customers who wish to add a cable modem (or other device) to a local network to choose both the cable modem through which they access the Internet and the Internet Service Provider (ISP) that will provide them that access. A system of hardware connects the local network to the Internet. This hardware includes cable-modem infrastructure that denies Internet access to devices on the local network that are not registered with an authorized ISP. The hardware also facilitates the registration process, allowing devices new to the local network to establish Internet-access agreements with ISPs, and thereby gain access to the Internet.