The DOCSIS (Data‐Over‐Cable Service Interface Specification) Protocol

The Data‐Over‐Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) is the heart of providing IP‐based services over the access network to the subscribers. This chapter focuses on DOCSIS, especially its physical and data link layers, and briefly mentions other related companion protocols. The DOCSIS specification is very detailed, covering the aspects of data services over multiple system operators (MSO) hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) networks from Layer 1–7. More specifically, DOCSIS specifies the physical and MAC layer protocols, and an associated provisioning and management framework. Finally, the chapter focuses on CM initialization and provisioning process, discussing Quality of Service (QoS) and other MAC parameters.