How is an analog modem connection different from a cable modem or a digital subscriber line (DSL) modem connection?
• Speed – Most cable and DSL connections range from 384 Kbps to 6 megabits per second. Speed varies significantly by ISP, service plan, user density, and other factors. In the United States, the maximum FCC approved speed of an analog modem built to the v.90 standard is 53 Kbps, though it is normal if your modem connects at a slower speed due to phone line conditions. In practice, this means that you can load Web pages and download files 10 to 110 times faster by using cable or DSL service. • Constant Connection – Cable and DSL connections are always active, which means you do not have to wait for the modem to connect to the Internet. They also leave your phone line free. An analog modem must place a phone call to your Internet service provider at the beginning of each connection session. A phone line in use by an analog modem cannot be used for any other purpose, such as receiving phone calls, without the use of additional hardware and/or software. • Connecting to Your Computer – Anal
