What is the Difference Between ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) and DSL?
ISDN and DSL are two widely-used Internet connection methods. The only similarity between them is the fact that they use phone lines; because, in every other aspect, such as speed and cost, they are totally different. DSL tends to be preferred in most categories, but it also has some weak points.
Other People Are Reading
-
Technology
-
ISDN, or Integrated Services Digital Network, is a phone service that transmits voice and data over regular phone lines. By using a digital network, ISDN allows the use of multiple devices such as computers, phone or fax machines simultaneously.
DSL, or Digital Subscriber Line, is a broadband network operating through phone lines. Data transmission can occur at the same time as voice transmission, as voice packets use low frequencies and data packets use high frequencies.
Installation
-
DSL connections require a modem or router to be installed, while ISDN connections just need a simple adapter to make the connection. A DSL connection may also require a separate alimentation method, such as an Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) to remain operational in case of a power failure. ISDN uses the power on the phone lines to work, so no additional power input is required.
-
Speed
-
ISDN connections can only yield speeds of up to 384 kilobytes/second, while DSL connections are much faster--as much as 8 megabytes/second.
Connectivity
-
DSL connections are always on, so you can browse the Internet anytime you want. ISDN connections are dial-up connections, requiring you to dial a number in order to connect.
Costs
-
An ISDN connection is cheaper, as it does not require additional components like DSL connections do. However, when it comes to usage, ISDN connections usually charge per minute, so the more you stay connected, the more you generally have to pay. DSL connections come at a flat rate, independent of the time you spend online--a boon for those who are frequently online.
-
