Comparison of Satellite & DSL Internet Connections

Satellite and DSL connections are both broadband Internet options, but they have very different methods of delivery. A satellite Internet connection is sent through a satellite in orbit over the Earth. A reception satellite dish receives the signal and transmits it through a cable into your computer via a special modem. DSL, on the other hand, comes through your regular phone lines, just like dial-up Internet. However, the DSL signal transmits at a different frequency than your voice line and thus allows for the use of a DSL connection at the same time as the telephone. A special DSL modem sorts out the Internet signal from the voice signal to bring Internet access to your computer.

Both satellite and DSL Internet are high-speed connections that offer faster speeds than dial-up. However, the speed does vary depending on the service you choose, as well as the provider. For the most part, DSL speeds are faster than those of satellite. Depending on what you use the Internet for, the speed of satellite may be sufficient, especially if you only engage in light browsing and email. Satellite Internet also has a slight lag that results from the distance the signal travels. This lag makes satellite a poor choice for video and voice chatting.

One of the most important aspects of choosing the right high-speed option for you is availability. Not all options are available in all locations. DSL requires that you live within a certain distance from the source of your signal. The further away you live, the slower your connection. Satellite has virtually no geographic restrictions. As long as you can clearly aim a satellite dish at the southern sky, you can receive satellite Internet. If you live in a rural area or wish to travel with your Internet, satellite Internet may be your only option.

The reliability of your Internet connection is important, especially if you use it for important tasks such as working from home. DSL Internet is very rarely interrupted, except in the case of a technical error while satellite Internet, like satellite television, can experience disruptions due to the weather. These disruptions are rare.

The cost of high-speed Internet connections can vary widely depending on the company you use and where you live. For the most part, DSL costs significantly less than satellite Internet. DSL Internet also requires far less equipment, typically resulting in less cost for you overall.