How Fast Is High Speed DSL?

High-speed DSL port

High-speed DSL or "ADSL" is a common Internet service that provides faster connections to the Web than dial-up. Different Iternet providers offer DSL at varying speeds.

Definition

DSL, or "Digital Subscriber Line," is a high-speed Internet service. It uses a high-bandwidth connection that transfers more data per second than "dial-up" Internet service.

Speed

Most DSL connections can receive data (known as downstreaming) at a rate of 1.5 to 9 megabytes per second (Mbps) and can send data (known as upstreaming) at 16 to 540 kilobytes per second (Kbps).

Considerations

When selecting a DSL Internet service provider, be sure to ask about average or "functional" speed, not just maximum speed (which providers often advertise more predominantly).

References

• Harvard Readiness Guide: Glossary of Terms
• Webopedia: Types of Internet Connections