How Does DSL Compare to Cable Internet Service?
DSL is a fast, secure, one-to-one connection. Cable has some inherent drawbacks. First, the cable network is shared, which means as the number of cable users increases, the speed on each individual’s line decreases. Second, a shared network is less secure than a dedicated service like DSL, as neighboring cable customer can more easily intercept data or hack into another user’s computer. Third, the upstream speed on a cable modem is generally no higher than 128 Kbps. DSL is available with upload speeds of up to 1.5Mbs. How Does DSL Compare to T-1 Lines? DSL is not for all businesses. Although DSL is generally reliable it is not as reliable as a traditional T-1. Businesses that need very high reliability and a quick mean time to repair when something goes wrong may need to remain with a T-1. However, for normal business usage DSL is generally a very economical choice. How DSL Works DSL technology has a complicated history. However, understanding the technology is important to understandi
Cable is often advertised to have faster speeds. However, most users report that their experience on cable is not consistent – meaning it can be fast today, and slow tomorrow. That is especially true on upload speeds (when sending to the Internet). DSL users typically report their upload speeds are very consistent and faster than cable, no matter what the rated speeds. Q: I currently qualify for 1.5Mbps DSL. I’ve heard that some lines can qualify for up to 7Mbps. Why can’t everyone get this speed? A: DSL technology uses standard telephone lines (copper) for data transmission. The speed of the connection is limited by the distance of the wire from the DSL modem to the central office equipment (DSLAM) due to interference, line noise and cross-talk. In other words, the farther the distance, the slower the speeds. In order to receive speeds of 7Mbps, one must be less than 5000 cable feet from the central office equipment. Q: What kind of modem should I use for my DSL connection? A: There a
