Cable vs. DSL Internet

Comparing Cable and DSL

Cable Internet

Cable Internet is a form of broadband Internet that is sold by most cable providers using their platform. That means the Internet access is provided using the existing coaxial cables that bring cable television to your home.

Pros and cons with cable Internet service:

• Slightly faster than DSL boasting a download speed of up to 20 Mbps.
• Internet speed is not affected by the distance from the ISP hub of the company you have Internet access through.
• Shared bandwidth with everyone in your area that has the same provider. This has been said to slow your connection speed.
• Cable providers offer deals if you bundle their Internet service with other services they offer like cable TV and phone service.
• In some instances, the prices of cable Internet can be slightly higher than those of DSL.
• Cable Internet is secure but you should always install a firewall and security software to ensure your information is thoroughly secure.

DSL

DSL is also sold under the broadband umbrella and it uses existing telephone network to provide Internet service to your home. Local phone companies can now provide you with home phone service as well as DSL Internet service.

Pros and cons with DSL service:

• A little slower than cable with download speeds up to 7 Mbps.
• You must live close to the ISP hub or your speeds might be slower than advertised.
• Bandwidth is not shared with anyone.
• You can always bundle Internet with phone service to get a great deal.
• When compared to cable Internet, DSL service comes in at a lower cost.
• It is a secure platform but you should always look into installing antivirus software and a firewall to be fully protected.