When watching TV, some people prefer cable television because it provides unique programming without some of the content restrictions placed on traditional networks. Because cable television is a closed system, only subscribers have access to the channels they choose to watch. A cable channel has the right to show programs which feature strong language, suggestive sexual content or violent imagery, as long as this information is clearly communicated to the viewer before the broadcast.

Many cable television systems also have the capacity to provide subscribers with telephone service and Internet access through a high-speed digital modem. All of these services can be usually bundled together at a reasonable monthly rate, thus eliminating the need for separate telephone and Internet access accounts with other providers. Some cable television systems have interactive features which allow viewers to select specific programs and movies for on-demand viewing, or provide digital recording for later review.