What organization approved the first version of the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) as an international standard?

The correct answer is the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), as it was responsible for recognizing and approving the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) as an international standard. DOCSIS allows high-speed internet access through coaxial cable systems, and its recognition by the ITU signifies its importance and validity as a global specification for broadband communication.

The ITU creates standards to ensure the interoperability and cooperation of telecommunications systems worldwide. By setting these standards, the ITU plays a crucial role in facilitating global communication infrastructure, and DOCSIS being approved by such a respected organization highlights its significance in the field of data communication over cable networks.

Other organizations mentioned, such as the IEEE and FCC, focus on different aspects of technology and regulation, rather than specifically on international standardization of cable data communications. The ISO creates broader standards for various industries rather than specific telecommunications technologies.