What is DOCSIS?

Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications. DOCSIS defines interface requirements for cable modems involved in high-speed data distribution over a cable television network. On November 17, 1997, Cable Television Laboratories, Inc. (Cable Labs) and its members established a formal path of certification for cable modem equipment suppliers to obtain an interoperability seal for their products based on the DOCSIS specification. This certification process provides cable modem equipment suppliers with a fast, market-oriented method for attaining cable industry acknowledgment of compliance with DOCSIS.

The seal is meant to provide the purchaser with a way to be confident that the modem equipment to be purchased is compliant with the specification, and that the equipment interoperates with DOCSIS products made by other vendors.