Comparison of Broadband Internet Services

Satellite connectivity depends on data transferred between your transceiver and a satellite in a fixed orbit above the Earth. Satellite data transfer speeds are roughly equivalent to other broadband connection types, though latency is an issue. Latency is the measure of response time for data requests. The distance the data must travel to and from the satellite increases the latency -- slowing the response time -- of the connection. High latency, also known as "lag," makes satellite connections unsuitable for online gaming requiring rapid responses. Satellite connectivity requires line-of-sight for strong connections. The ability to change locations, as long as line-of-sight is maintained, makes satellite a popular source of Internet connectivity for travelers and RV owners. Extreme weather, though, can degrade connection quality.

Cable Internet connections are provided across the same coaxial cable that delivers cable TV. Broadband throughput is determined by the volume of traffic on the hub to which you are connected. To provide a guarantee of minimum data transfer speeds, some cable companies restrict bandwidth for users during high use hours. Connectivity requires a cable modem and a subscription to the service. Power boosters applied to the cable line increase the signal strength. Cable generally provides low latency, and is suitable for most online gaming. As with cable television, Internet connectivity is not typically affected by extreme weather.

Fiber-optic service utilizes glass fibers to transmit data as bursts of light. Reliable fiber service is a popular option for new subdivisions. Fiber-optic service is not as broadly available due to the lack of installed infrastructure. Fiber-optic lines are more easily damaged than copper wire, and breaks along the wire cause immediate loss of service. Light transmission along the fiber lines is not affected by magnetic or electrical disturbance. Weather does not affect the fiber connectivity, though it may affect the point of origin.

DSL, or digital subscriber lines, use the twisted-pair copper wire utilized by your telephone. Throughput speeds and latency are comparable to cable service. DSL requires less than 10,000 feet from your home to the DSL hub for optimal connectivity. DSL data transmissions travel along the same phone line through which phone service is connected. To prevent signal interference, phone-line filters are installed at each phone jack in the house. High-speed connections and very-high speed connections (HDSL and VDSL, respectively) are available in some markets. The higher speeds require additional infrastructure, and rates are generally higher for the faster service.

Wireless broadband connectivity is made available through radio transmission. Signal strength at the point of connection is the greatest factor when determining data throughput speeds. Guaranteed speeds are not possible with wireless broadband due to signal interference and distance variations from the signal source. Wireless connectivity provides high mobility within range of the broadcast towers. Weather conditions can affect signal strength.