Comparison of DSL, Cable, WiFi and Satellite Internet

Digital subscriber loop, or digital subscriber line, (DSL) is a type of Internet connection that provides data transfer through the local phone company wires. Connection speeds can range from 256Kbps to 24Mbps. DSL wires must run from an external hub router through the phone jack of your home or business and through a modem before reaching your computer. DSL subscribers do not share the network with neighbors, and many DSL services allow users to speak on the phone and use the Internet simultaneously.

Cable Internet access is transferred through a cable modem. Cable Internet is similar to DSL, but it allows users to work anywhere within range of a wireless router without the hassle of cables. People who are not using a wireless route will only be able to go as far as their Ethernet cable allows them. Cable is typically faster than DSL and less affected by proximity of service provider. Cable Internet access requires little installation. This form of Internet access has a download speed range of 1.5Mbps to 3.0Mbps and an upload speed range of 400Kbps to 600Kbps.

Wi-Fi takes away the Ethernet cable that plugs into the computer and allows wireless connectivity almost anywhere in the United States. As of June 2011, the most common forms of wireless technologies are 3G networks and 3G service providers. 4G networks and Long Term Evolution (LTE) networks are rising in popularity and availability. Areas where Wi-Fi is available are designated as hotspots. Many devices, like laptops, video gaming systems, phones and desktop computers can access the Internet while in range of a hotspot. Wi-Fi's speed range depends on which network is being accessed, but according to the Federal Communications Commission, "(hotspots) provide lower speeds, in the range of several hundred kbps." Stronger Internet connections through wireless routers will have a higher speed range.

Satellite Internet access is more commonly used in rural areas where there are no hotspots or Internet connection options. There are three different kinds of satellite Internet access: one-way with terrestrial return, one-way multicast and two-way satellite access. One-way with terrestrial return receives data quickly but sends data via a telephone modem, which takes longer. One-way multicast are only used for "IP multicast-based data, video and audio distribution," according to DSL.com. Two-way satellite access provides quick two-way information transfer as long as service is not interrupted. Satellite Internet users can expect a download speed of around 1Mbps and an upload speed of around 200kbps.