Wildblue Vs. DSL

In the U.S. the average Internet speeds that subscribers may access ranges anywhere from 1 Mbps to 10 Mbps, depending on the state. You may be able to subscribe to plans with significantly more download and upload speeds through DSL than through satellite Internet. As of June 2011, the maximum speed you can achieve through a WildBlue plan is 1.5 Mbps. Through Qwest's DSL service, you can achieve a maximum download speed of up to 40 Mbps. Latency is another challenge that satellite Internet subscribers face. Delays may occur in processing web requests because of the distance satellite data must travel back and forth, especially when data verification or authentication is necessary.

Satellite Internet subscribers pay a premium for service because the areas in which most subscribers reside tend to be rural and are not serviced by cable and DSL providers. DSL rates tend to be much lower as providers are in direct competition with both cable and wireless ISPs. As of June 2011, WildBlue's Pro Package, offering download speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps, goes for $80 per month for 12 months. Qwest's Pro package offers download speeds of up to 40 Mbps and goes for $45 per month for 12 months.

Both WildBlue and DSL providers tend to offer perks to turn prospective customers into subscribers. These perks may range from free email addresses and security software to access to premium sites. WildBlue and DSL providers can wave installation and other fees when establishing new service for subscribers. You should always ask for a waiver because it is not a guarantee that the representative will offer this as a perk if it is available.

The address where you'd like to have satellite or DSL high-speed Internet service will be the biggest factor in the type of service you'll be able to receive. While satellite Internet providers are quick to note that service extends across virtually all of the U.S., there are instances where a region may not be serviceable by a satellite or DSL provider. It is always important for you to contact the providers you'd like to have service your address and ask if it falls within their coverage area.