• by Wayne Friedman , October 14, 2013

Netflix is getting closer to what a U.S. TV cable network looks like -- in part.

The big subscription video-on-demand service is reportedly in talks with big cable operators, such as Comcast Corp. and Suddenlink Communications, to provide its service on set-top boxes.

But with one caveat: Cable companies have to use Netflix app/technology, that includes a private content delivery network, all this to ensure the best-quality video. The initial report came from The Wall Street Journal.

This move follows deals Netflix has made in Europe with cable operators, such as Britain's Virgin Media and Sweden's Com Hem companies.

For U.S. cable operators, making agreements with Netflix could seemingly slow down the activity of potential "cord-cutting" by consumers. In turn, Netflix, would get the benefit of U.S. cable operators faster broadband speeds. Plus, cable operators could use the inclusion of Netflix as a negotiation tactic against TV networks/stations that increasingly demand higher retrans fees.

For some time now, Netflix has made numerous deals with broadband-enabled TVs and other video devices where consumers can access the video-on-demand service.

The talks are said to be in the preliminary stages.