A network gateway function that is provided at a coaxial tap of a hybrid-fiber coaxial broadband network that feeds a customer location. A Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) modem may be embedded in the tap wherein the DOCSIS protocol is terminated. A network functionality such as firewall and network address translation is provided at a network termination point that may use Multimedia over Coax (MoCA) or other similar technology using an existing coaxial cable drop to a customer location that effectively extends a home network to the tap.