If you area has DSL service as an option, you might want to check out Speakeasy (http://www.speakeasy.net/) for your internet service. I have a package with 2 static IP addresses, and no port blocking, plus the usual assortment of email addresses, web hosting space, and so forth. I can't quote you numbers on the speed. I think there's a faster service available than the one I have, but I haven't run into any serious performance issues, even with two intense Everquest junkies in the household, so I haven't paid much attention to the traffic speeds.

I originally went with Speakeasy about 5 years ago when I was expecting to stay in the system administration game, and wanted access to things like the fixed IP addresses which weren't offered by a lot of providers. I don't really need them at this point, and could probably save a few bucks a month, but inertia is a strong force. I'm paying about $75 a month for my service. I've only needed customer service a couple of times, but when I've needed it it's been good and competent. I'm not sure I'd recommend them to a real novice, because the initial setup was mildly technical. Nothing you'd have any trouble with, but I wouldn't want to try to walk my grandmother through it. I've vaguely noted that there are higher end, more business oriented offerings, all the way up to T1, but haven't paid attention to the details.

You'd need to go elsewhere for your cable TV fix though.