Final answer:
A modem is a device used to provide high-speed data access via cable or DSL connections. Modems have become faster with technology advancements and have contributed to broader Internet connectivity, despite ongoing disparities and discussions on Net Neutrality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The device used to provide high-speed data access via your cable connection or via a telephone company's DSL connection is a modem. Modems are essential for connecting to the Internet and were especially significant during the rise of online service providers in the 1990s. With advancements in technology, modems have evolved from those utilizing standard phone lines to more sophisticated broadband connections, which use cable television lines or dedicated lines to facilitate faster internet speeds.
As the demand for higher bandwidth for activities like video streaming has increased, discussions around Net Neutrality have emerged, focusing on how broadband networks should manage and charge for data-heavy content delivery. Moreover, the digital divide remains a concern, with certain communities having limited or no access to high-speed Internet, often impacting rural and low-income urban areas.
Through technological developments and the increased availability of affordable personal computers, more individuals have had the opportunity to connect online, although disparities in technology use and internet access persist, varying by race, class, and age.