Comparisons of AT&T DSL to Dial-Up Speeds

AT&T; packages feature download speeds from 768 Kbps to 6.0 Mbps and upload speeds from 128 Kbps to 512 Kbps. At the time of publication, the cost is $14.95 per month for every package except the fastest package, which is $19.95. The equipment -- a Wireless Gateway modem -- is free for the two fastest packages because customers have to sign up for a one-year contract. However, customers get a $100 rebate when ordering online, whereas the two slower packages require $100 for the Wireless Gateway modem. All plans come with 11 email accounts with 10 MB of web space, 24-hour customer service and the option of purchasing insurance separately.

AT however, if high-speed DSL is not provided in your area, dial-up plans may be the only way to receive Internet access.

Consider whether AT&T; high-speed DSL Internet is provided in your area to help determine your choice. Strictly in terms of speed, dial-up is much slower than DSL. If the Internet is used primarily for web surfing and emailing, dial-up is a viable option. However, if downloading videos, music or working from home is the intended purpose of the Internet, consider high-speed access if it is available in your area.

With dial-up, installation involves purchasing a traditional phone jack and cord and plugging the computer into the phone jack. With DSL Internet, a modem has to be purchased as well as an Ethernet cord. While both installation processes can be executed by novice computer users, dial-up is a bit easier to install.