About Qwest Internet

by Oneil Williams, Demand Media

Qwest high-speed Internet uses DSL technology.

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Qwest, which has assumed the name CenturyLink, provides subscribers with high-speed DSL Internet service. The provider has a range of plans to meet the needs of light to moderate Internet users, as well as those who may be into heavy file downloading and computer-intensive tasks. Subscribers must have an active telephone line in order to subscribe to the provider's service.

DSL Technology

Qwest high-speed Internet uses DSL technology. Digital data is transmitted over a land-line telephone wire, located at the premises, through a modem that the customer rents from the provider. Voice data travels on one frequency while digital data travels on another. This allows DSL subscribers to have a phone conversation while maintaining an Internet connection. Subscribers should be aware that the closer their location is to the provider's central office, the faster the Internet connection will be. As such, advertised speeds may not be available at a particular address if it is too far away from the central office. Qwest also offers an Internet service called Pure Broadband that does not require the use of an active telephone line.

Speeds

Qwest has a variety of plans from which subscribers can choose. The most basic plan offers connection speeds of up to 1.5Mbps and, as of the date of this publication, goes for about $15 per month. The plan with the fastest speed of up to 40Mbps is about $45 per month. Light to moderate Internet users may be better off with a basic to intermediate level plan while online gamers and high-definition online movie watchers may want the higher-tiered packages.

Features

Qwest boasts 99.9 percent network reliability for its subscribers. The provider offers 24/7 customer support and a free installation CD so new subscribers do not have to pay an installation charge. Regardless of the Internet plan you choose, Qwest offers all high-speed Internet subscribers Qwest@Ease, a suite of security tools designed to keep you and your computer safe. Additional perks include premium online content and free Qwest Wi-Fi.

Considerations

Speak with a representative about your Internet habits to determine what plan would work best for you. Have the address where you would like to establish service handy when you call as a representative will not be able to provide you with an exact quote if you do not have this available. Ask whether a long-term contract will be required for service and whether there will be other fees, such as activation costs, to consider during installation.

References

  • Qwest; Qwest Heavy Duty Internet
  • Qwest; Qwest High-Speed Internet Subscriber Agreement

Resources

  • SpeedTest.net; The Global Broadband Speed Test

About the Author

Oneil Williams started writing professionally in 1993. He wrote for "The Sunday Gleaner" and the "Jamaica Observer," two newspaper publications in Jamaica, and immigrated to the United States in 1995. Williams holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts in communication from the University of Central Florida.

Photo Credits

  • Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images