Difference Between Cable Modem & DSL

Cable and DSL are two forms of broadband Internet. Broadband Internet is considerably faster than dial-up and is constantly improving and becoming more affordable.

Hardware

Both DSL and cable use broadband modems that are usually identical in looks and features. Unless your home is wired for Ethernet, cable Internet may require additional (but minor) drilling to be done.

Availability

DSL requires that you be near a telephone hub. For most areas, this is not a problem. A DSL provider can tell you if you are eligible or not. Cable Internet is available where cable television is (as long as the cable company offers it).

Pricing

Pricing is determined by the speeds you sign up for. DSL is generally cheaper because even entry level cable speeds usually start higher than DSL.

Speeds

The average entry level DSL connection is 768 kilobits per second (kbps). The average cable connection is 1.5 megabits per second (mbps). The difference is definitely noticeable, especially if you use multiple computers or other devices that require an Internet connection.

Slowdown

A strong DSL connection depends entirely on the strength of your phone signal. A strong cable connection can depend on wiring and a high volume of users on the same internet service provider.

References

• Tech-Faq: Additional information on broadband and broadband connections