DSL vs. ADSL Modems

This is an example of a DSL (digital subscriber line) modem.

Since the birth of the internet, there has been a constant push to increase the speed at which it can be viewed. As a result, modern technologies have produced DSL and ADSL modems among others. This article compares the two types of modems.

Modems Compared

ADSL modems are a subset of DSL modems. It is common for ADSL modems to be simply known as DSL modems. Asynchronous and asymmetric are synonyms for the first letter of the acronym ADSL.

DSL Modems

DSL is an acronym for digital subscriber line. It allows high-bandwidth information to travel across existing copper telephone lines and a DSL modem is present on both ends of the connection. DSL modems enable you to surf the internet and talk on the phone at the same time.

ADSL Modems

The two types of DSL modems are asynchronous digital subscriber line (ADSL) and syncronous subscriber line (SDSL). The former is defined as having upload and download speeds that differ, while the latter is defined as having the same speed for uploads and downloads. ADSL modems are the more prevalent of the two types.

References

• Electronics Information Online: DSL, ADSL Modem
• Techdictionary: Search Results