Who Offers DSL Internet?

by Josh Patrick, Demand Media

DSL is a step up from traditional dial-up Internet service.

Chad Baker/Photodisc/Getty Images

DSL stands for digital subscriber line, a high-speed Internet technology that uses phone lines to send and receive data. Unlike dial-up Internet, DSL does not interfere with home phone usage because the digital Internet signals are carried at a different frequency than the telephone signals. Distance from transmitting stations is the primary limiting factor to DSL availability. Many telecommunications companies offer DSL service.

AT&T;

Telecom giant AT&T; offers residential DSL Internet at four service levels. None of AT&T;'s packages require a contract or expensive equipment fees. The DSL Basic package allows for download speeds of 768Kbps. Frequent Internet users who need more speed can select the DSL Elite package and get speeds up to 6Mbps, fast enough to watch streaming movies, play online games and transfer large files. For a small monthly fee, new subscribers receive an Internet security suite. AT&T; Wi-Fi hotspots are freely available to all DSL subscribers.

Verizon

New Verizon subscribers receive a free wireless router, adding a layer of security and the ability to create a wireless network at home. Outside the home, customers have access to all of Verizon's hotspots. Customers can select from a variety of packages based on their needs. Every package comes with the sports network ESPN3 and an on-demand PC game store. For a monthly fee, you can add an Internet security suite or online backup.

Windstream

Windstream markets DSL Internet packages with download speeds of 3, 6 and 12Mbps. For the first month of service, new subscribers receive free Internet security software. Windstream also offers online backup for sensitive files. If you want help establishing a home network, a technician can visit your residence and configure all of the necessary hardware. As with most ISPs, Windstream has technical support lines open around the clock.

CenturyLink

CenturyLink, based in Monroe, Louisiana, is the third largest telecommunications company in the United States. DSL service from CenturyLink starts at 768Kbps, while the high-end package claims a top speed of 10Mbps. Customers can choose from a menu of online features to add to their subscription. A music store keeps your digital album collection safe and accessible. PC Backup insures your hardware against malfunctions or accidents. In the event of serious computer problems, a CenturyLink technician can visit your home and resolve the issue.

DSL Extreme

DSL Extreme, headquartered in Los Angeles, offers high-speed Internet packages similar to the major companies. Potential speeds range from 768Kbps at the low end to 6Mbps at the high end. DSL Extreme provides customers with 24/7 technical support, self-installation and a free modem lease. Subscribers receive a total of 70GB email storage as well as anti-virus and firewall software. DSL Extreme also offers business packages with significantly accelerated upload and download speeds.

References

  • AT&T; DSL High Speed Internet Plans
  • Verizon: High Speed Internet
  • Windstream: Residential High-Speed Internet
  • Century Link: Internet Plans
  • DSL Extreme: Affordable High-Speed DSL & ADSL2+
  • Broadband.gov: Types of Broadband Connections

Resources

  • Switch to Broadband: DSL Broadband

About the Author

Josh Patrick has several years of teaching and training experience, both in the academy and the private sector. He presented original work at the 20th Century Literature Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Patrick worked for three years on the editorial board for "Inscape," his alma mater's literary magazine. He holds a Master of Library and Information Science.

Photo Credits

  • Chad Baker/Photodisc/Getty Images