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When selecting the ideal type of internet for your home or business, there are a few things to take into account. Ultimately, speed and the requirements of your business will dictate which option is most suitable.
In general, two primary forms of internet are available in the US: DSL and Cable.
Cost
Cable-based internet service is a popular option among home users due to its typically fast download and upload speeds. Plus, it boasts more bandwidth than DSL does, making it ideal for streaming video, gaming, and downloading large files.
However, cable internet can be more expensive than DSL and may not be available where you live. The cost depends on which provider and plan type you select; prices may also change based on location.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an internet option that uses copper telephone lines to transfer data and connect you to the web. It's widely available and may offer a cheaper alternative to cable Internet service.
Though slower than cable, DSL still offers faster download speeds than dial-up. Typically, its top download speed is around 100 Mbps; however, some DSL plans offer even faster download rates up to 500 Mbps.
A DSL modem is a device that connects your computer to the internet. It may be an independent unit or part of a router which also links up with your Wi-Fi network.
Cable internet is a broadband service that utilizes the same copper coaxial cable wires that bring cable TV into your home. It's available in most areas that support cable TV and offers a more cost-effective option than DSL internet service.
Cable internet, unlike DSL, is a dedicated service - meaning it doesn't share bandwidth with other subscribers in your neighborhood. This makes it faster than DSL although it may slow down during times of high usage.
If you need simultaneous access to the internet, cable connections are a better choice than DSL as they offer faster download and upload speeds. Furthermore, cable connections boast superior quality connections that don't suffer the same problems experienced with DSL during storms.
DSL and cable Internet are both great options for home users who require a reliable, high-speed connection at an affordable price. Before signing up, take into account your needs and decide which service best meets your budget.
Speed
Your internet speed is largely determined by the service you select. Most homes have three high-speed options to choose from: DSL, cable and fiber optic. Each provides a great option for different tasks.
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is an internet connection that utilizes existing copper telephone lines to transmit data. It's faster than dial-up and supports multiple devices simultaneously. DSL has become particularly popular among homeowners and small businesses who need both their internet and phone line connected simultaneously.
DSL internet service requires both a modem and phone line from your local telephone company. DSL has become increasingly popular due to its speedy, dependable nature and the versatility of choosing between different connection speeds and prices from various providers - making it suitable for most households.
However, DSL speeds are determined by the length of cable connecting you to your nearest telephone provider. It's generally advised not to select a cable that extends far from home as this will lead to slower connection speeds.
Another factor to consider is the amount of traffic in your area. DSL lines tend to be more reliable when there is less activity on them, helping maintain your internet connection's stability.
On your DSL connection, you have the option of choosing between different download and upload speed tiers. These range from several hundred kilobits per second up to millions of bits per second (Mbps). The faster the speed, the more online activities will be possible.
Your DSL connection's speed tiers also vary in cost, with lower speeds being cheaper than higher ones. Ultimately, the most economical choice for you depends on what meets both your needs and budget.
Most homes and businesses require sufficient speed for basic web browsing, but some may want to stream video or play games on their internet connection. In such cases, fiber-optic connections are the fastest available option with speeds up to 1 Gbps - though this may come at a costlier price point than other internet types.
Reliability
Reliability has become an essential aspect of internet access, particularly in the United States. As more people shop, browse, play games and work from home remotely, the need for reliable connectivity has intensified in recent years.
Many internet service providers provide customers with a selection of options, such as DSL and cable internet. Both types rely on existing infrastructure, making them highly reliable and accessible.
DSL is one of the most common internet technologies, with 21% of American households using it to connect to the web. This connection is made possible via telephone lines or fiber-optic cables and can extend long distances.
There are various types of DSL, such as High-data rate DSL (HDSL) and Very high DSL (VDSL). Typically, these connections to the internet use standard copper phone lines wired into your home.
Cable internet technology is another type of internet connection, which sends data through coaxial cables connecting to your television set. While faster than DSL, cable may not be as dependable in certain areas.
Another option is fiber internet, which utilizes strands of glass that transmit information through light pulses. It's a dependable connection and can offer fast, unlimited Internet speed.
Reliability is essential for businesses that rely on online services, such as healthcare providers and universities. Hospitals and medical centers rely on internet connectivity to share patient data such as imaging results, lab tests and scans.
According to a 2021 Ernst & Young Survey, 58% of broadband users prioritize reliability over speed when it comes to internet connection. Furthermore, more than half of these internet users have experienced slow or unreliable connections at some point in their lifetime.
According to a survey conducted in 2016, most broadband consumers are willing to pay extra for more reliable service from their provider - with 80% saying they would be willing to shell out more money for improved connectivity. Reliability is especially essential for businesses that rely on essential services like healthcare or transportation, where businesses cannot afford downtime.
In addition to residential Internet access, many ISPs provide business and enterprise customers with various service tiers. Comcast and Time Warner both provide business class internet that is usually faster and more dependable than their residential offerings.
Convenience
Selecting an internet service can be daunting, with so many factors to take into account. Before making your choice, assess your needs and determine which connection type best meets them.
Cable and DSL internet services offer different advantages. One major distinction is that cable relies on coaxial cables instead of telephone lines, making it simpler to locate and install in various locations.
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is a type of broadband that uses copper phone lines to link customers to the Internet. It's widely available, making it an ideal option for homes without fiber optic installation or those living in rural areas where other options are limited.
Faster broadband than other types of internet is available, making it perfect for streaming videos and gaming. Unfortunately, it's not as reliable as fiber and may experience slowdowns when other users in your area are online simultaneously.
DSL internet remains one of the most common types in America, despite its limitations. It often comes at lower costs than other forms of internet and can be beneficial to households that simply require a faster connection for basic needs.
DSL also provides symmetrical download and upload speeds, so it can handle both upstream and downstream data. This is advantageous for businesses that require a lot of information or video conferencing applications that require significant bandwidth both upstream and downstream.
DSL internet, on the other hand, is less vulnerable to outages than satellite internet is. It's generally available in communities that have cable TV service and makes for a great option for those who need quick and dependable access to the web.
DSL is a cost-effective alternative to cable and can be found in remote areas where fiber optic internet isn't yet available. Plus, it has the added advantage of being versatile - you can pair it with other services like home security or phone service for added convenience.
DSL and cable internet services are both excellent choices for businesses, but which is best depends on your individual requirements. While both options are generally available, it's essential to fully comprehend their advantages and drawbacks before making a final determination.