Cable television is a system that delivers television programming to viewers through coaxial or fiber-optic cables. Unlike traditional broadcast television, which transmits signals over the air, cable television provides a wider range of channels and often includes premium options. Subscribers typically pay a monthly fee for access to various channels, including news, sports, movies, and entertainment. The service began in the late 1940s and gained popularity in the 1980s with the introduction of cable networks like MTV and CNN. Today, cable television remains a popular choice for many households, although streaming services are increasingly competing for viewers' attention.