What is the last step in a cable modem's registration process?

The final step in a cable modem's registration process occurs when the modem receives a registration acknowledgment (REG-ACK) message from the Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS). This message indicates that the modem's initial registration request has been successfully processed and that it is now officially recognized on the network.

This acknowledgment is crucial because it confirms that the modem has been successfully authenticated and is authorized to access the network services. Without this REG-ACK, the modem would not proceed to the next stages of the operation, such as the DHCP process, which assigns an IP address for internet connectivity.

The overall registration process involves various initial stages, including powering on the modem and sending a registration request, but it is this receipt of the REG-ACK that signifies the completion of the registration phase. Thus, it is the acknowledgment that confirms the modem’s readiness to function within the broadband network.