DSL, which stands for digital service line, is high-speed Internet delivered through copper telephone lines, while the term broadband typically refers to cable broadband, which is delivered through the coaxial cable that also carries cable television signals to homes. Both services are classified as high-speed, meaning they provide higher speeds than dial-up. There are several differences between the two services that should be considered when choosing between them.
Speed
Upload speed for both DSL and cable broadband are comparable at about 128 to 380 Kbps. This speed is important for users who plan to upload a lot of data through emails and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) sites. The main speed difference is in the download speed. This speed comes into play anytime you request a Web page, receive an email or stream music or video. DSL offers download speeds of around 1.5 Mbps, while cable broadband's download speed is 2 Mbps.
Cost
Cost should be a factor in selecting any service. It is important to factor in the cost for any necessary equipment and installation fees in your cost analysis. This analysis should also consider the services you are getting for the price you are paying. According to My Blue Dish, monthly service fees for DSL and cable broadband are comparable at about $45 per month, although some companies offer "lite" versions with less bandwidth for a lower price. Both services require a modem, although DSL requires a DSL modem and cable requires a cable modem. These modems often can be rented through the service provider for a small monthly fee or purchased outright, which is usually cheaper. The modems for both services cost about $50. Installation fees for DSL can cost as much as $250, while cable installation, if it is even necessary, runs around $100.
Availability
Because both services transmit through cables, your home must be wired for either telephone or cable to receive service. In addition to this requirement, DSL service requires that your home be located within 18,000 feet of an access point. Homes or businesses beyond that radius cannot use DSL Internet because the signal cannot travel that far without suffering degradation. Any home that is wired for cable broadband can utilize broadband services.
Reliability
Both DSL and broadband are affected by other users in your area. If the people in your area are uploading or downloading large amounts of data, your speeds can be significantly reduced. Additionally, DSL uses the same lines as telephones, so telephone calls also compete for service. Phone calls are higher priority than DSL service, so if there is excessive phone use, you may experience slower DSL or be locked out altogether.
References
- FCC; Getting Broadband
- Which VOIP; Cable Broadband Internet Service Explained
- My Blue Dish; Satellite Internet, Why is It More Expensive?
- Webopedia; Cable vs. Dsl