What accounts for the higher cost of a 56k leased line?
The bulk of the expense of the 56k leased line is paid to the local telephone company. Because it is a “conditioned line”, the telephone company also provides a higher level of service – they will ensure that your line will operate at full speed, and will be responsive when you have transmission problems. Since 56k modems operate over voice grade lines, telcos will provide little, if any, assistance, unless the problems perceptibly affect voice conversations. Given that a 56k leased line is always connected, typically without per minute charges, the cost may compare favorably to keeping a modem line up 24 hours a day.
