What hardware device is used to obtain Internet access when the service provider delivers a coaxial cable?

The correct choice is a modem, as it is the hardware device specifically designed to convert signals from coaxial cable into a format that can be understood by digital devices, enabling Internet connectivity. The modem takes the analog signal coming in from the service provider over the coaxial cable and translates it into digital data that can be used by computers, routers, and other network equipment.

In the context of Internet access, the modem plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between your local network and your Internet service provider. Without the modem, devices like computers or smart devices would not be able to connect to the Internet, as they would not have a means to interpret or utilize the incoming data signals.

While a router may also be involved in distributing the Internet access to multiple devices within a network, it typically requires a modem to establish that initial connection through the coaxial cable. Therefore, the modem is essential for obtaining Internet access in this scenario.