Facts About DSL Internet
DSL, or digital subscriber line, high-speed Internet service is one of the major options for many households. DSL offers high-bandwidth connections to make browsing the web and sending and receiving large files quick and convenient. However, DSL comes with some disadvantages when compared to other forms of Internet service that are available.
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Function
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DSL Internet uses conventional telephone lines to supply a closed circuit of bandwidth to each subscriber. A phone line must be installed for use as well as a special DSL modem, which accepts the telephone line as an input source and carries the Internet signal between the line and a computer through a high-speed Ethernet cable. Computers connected to a DSL line need only an Ethernet port to receive the signal.
Cost
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The price of DSL service varies from one provider or local market to another. In markets where cable and DSL Internet service are both available, DSL generally costs less. Tiered pricing gives DSL providers the option of several speeds and premium features at multiple price levels. Most forms of DSL service have a monthly charge between $30 and $50, as of May 2010.
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Advantages
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DSL has several distinct advantages as a form of high-speed Internet service. Users don't need a cable connection and can receive Internet service through an existing telephone line. In addition, DSL allows users to make calls and talk on the telephone while connected to the Internet, giving it a convenience advantage over dial-up service, which occupies the entire phone line when the Internet is in use.
Drawbacks
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Internet users should be mindful of some of the problems associated with DSL. The maximum bandwidth is significantly lower than that offered by some other forms of high-speed Internet. DSL service is also less speedy for subscribers who are farther away from the nearest connection point, meaning that rural customers are likely to receive slower service than those who live in a town or city, despite paying the same price.
Alternatives
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DSL is far from the only option for high-speed Internet service. Cable service is also very common and supplies an even faster connection. Local area networks, or LANs, are in place on college campuses and in modern buildings, bringing even faster service for professional use. Finally, satellite-based high-speed Internet offers connections to rural and mobile customers who may not have access to cable, or even telephone, lines.
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References
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- Photo Credit back side of a modem image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com
