Although we use the term freely, cable networks (Comedy Central, HBO, History, USA, TNT, Lifetime, MTV, VH1, ESPN, TLC, BRAVO, E!) aren’t actually networks because they lack an actual network of TV stations. Instead, these cable networks send their shows via satellite to different cable providers (Comcast, Time Warner, DirecTV) which then distributes them to subscribers. We don’t need to get into the technical aspect of how cable networks operate. Just know that when someone says “cable” they mean any TV distributor that is not ABC, NBC, CBS, CW or FOX.
Some major cable networks include MTV, VH1, Comedy Central, Showtime, TBS, TNT, USA, Lifetime, TLC, Discovery, AMC, History, E!, Bravo, ESPN and HBO.
See premium cable