DSL Vs. Cable Modem
To connect a computer to the Internet, you need to have a modem. Two of the most popular modems are DSL--Digital Subscriber Line--and cable. There are reasons for their popularity including speed, convenience, cost and area.
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Convenience
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Cable modems are popular because people use cable TV and you connect the cable modem through the cable TV. DSL goes through telephone lines and because more people are using cell phones that don't have lines, it isn't used as much.
Speed
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Depending on how close you are to the telephone lines, your speed might be faster with a DSL modem than a cable modem. But people who live farther away from the telephone lines might find their speed isn't as fast as the cable modem.
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Cost
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Depending on the service you get from the cable company will also depend on the cost. Many cable companies offer different tiers. Depending on the tier you sign up for depends on the speed you receive. DSL charges might be less, but the speed might not be as fast.
Reliability
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Talking to other people will give you an idea of how reliable the DSL or cable service is in your area. Alternatively, signing up with one of the companies will give you first-hand knowledge of the modem service.
Security
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Online security is another factor DSL and cable modems take into account. With DSL, your line is always secure because you don't share the line with others, but cable can be as secure if you follow the security instructions.
Weighing the Factors
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Because DSL and cable modems offer different things in different areas, the final choice is up to you. It isn't going to do you much good if the speed offered is fast but the service is unreliable or the cost is too high.
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