The internet speed for a directly connected to the Internet cable in the United States can vary significantly based on the service provider and the specific plan chosen. Generally, speeds range from 25 Mbps to over 1 Gbps. The average internet speed in the U.S. as of 2021 was around 100 Mbps, but this can be higher for cable connections, which are known for their faster speeds compared to DSL or fiber-optic connections.

The reason for the varying speeds is due to the technology used and the infrastructure provided by the service providers. Cable internet, also known as DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification), utilizes the existing coaxial cable infrastructure to deliver high-speed internet. This technology allows for higher bandwidth and faster speeds, especially with the introduction of DOCSIS 3.1, which supports speeds up to 10 Gbps. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the average cable internet speed in the U.S. was 106.5 Mbps in 2020, reflecting the efficiency and capability of cable connections.

Additionally, the speed can be influenced by the number of users sharing the same cable line, known as "cable congestion." However, modern cable modems and network management techniques have helped mitigate this issue, ensuring consistent speeds for most users. For instance, Charter Communications, one of the largest cable internet providers in the U.S., offers plans with speeds up to 1 Gbps, catering to the needs of heavy internet users such as gamers and streamers.

It's important to note that actual internet speeds can be lower than the advertised speeds due to various factors such as network congestion, the quality of the user's equipment, and the distance from the service provider's central office. To get the most accurate speed, users can conduct speed tests using reputable online tools that measure their download and upload speeds in real-time.