Do I need any specific type of router or modem for cable broadband?

Yes, you do need specific equipment for cable broadband in the UK, and this will be provided by your service provider (Virgin Media). You cannot simply buy any cable modem off the shelf and expect it to work with the service. This is different from some other countries where you can use your own cable modem.

1. For Virgin Media (the main cable broadband provider in the UK):
- They typically provide their own router/hub (such as the Hub 4 for their gigabit service)
- The equipment is specifically designed for their network
- You cannot use just any modem with Virgin Media's service as they use specific protocols

2. For other major UK providers (BT, Sky, TalkTalk, etc.):
- These providers use different technology (mainly FTTC or FTTP) rather than cable broadband
- They also provide their own router/hub equipment

Key points to remember:
- If you're getting Virgin Media cable broadband, you must use their supplied hub/router initially
- You can use your own router in addition to Virgin Media's equipment by:
- Putting the Virgin Media hub in "modem mode"
- Connecting your own router to it
- You cannot completely replace Virgin's equipment with your own modem as their service requires specific hardware to work with their network