Comparison of DSL & Cable Internet Service

DSL Internet service uses telephone lines to transmit packets of data that are converted by a special DSL modem into a form that your computer can understand. If you already have an existing telephone installation, DSL could be a good option for you. Telephone companies often offer bundled DSL Internet and telephone services, resulting in significant cost savings over getting a naked, or standalone, DSL service. You can use the telephone and Internet simultaneously, as the signals are split on the existing telephone line.

There are different types of DSL, so you can choose the one that is right for you based on your needs. Regular DSL and asymmetric DSL (ADSL), which provides greater speeds on download, are suitable for home users. Synchronous DSL (SDSL) is suitable for business users, as it has greater priority than DSL and ADSL and offers greater bandwidth and stability.

Cable Internet service is delivered by cable television companies over fiber-optic or coaxial cables. These are usually the same cables they use to deliver your cable television service. You will need a special cable modem to convert the signals into a form your computer can understand. Cable Internet service is often bundled into a package with the television service, which can result in significant savings for you.

DSL and cable Internet services are always on. This can pose a security risk, as it means your computer is always connected to the Internet and is vulnerable to attack. You will need to take security measures, such as installing a firewall and performing regular security patches to your operating system and software applications. Cable service tends to slow down at peak periods and can be less secure than DSL, as the cable is shared with everyone in a neighborhood. DSL tends to slow down with distance from the exchange, so it is not a good choice if you live in a remote area.