How to Evaluate a DSL Provider

By eHow Internet Editor

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Depending on where you live, you may be able to choose from one or more DSL Internet service providers (ISPs). DSL, or digital subscriber line, uses part of your normal phone line as a "dedicated" data line that connects directly to an ISP. Access speeds with DSL can vary, but they are typically at least five times faster than a 56 Kbps modem.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • DSL Lines
  • Internet Service Providers

Step1
Find out what type of DSL service the ISP provides. If it is ADSL, find out what type of ADSL.
Step2
Find out the maximum speed possible (in MB per second) through the service. Ask about both upload speeds (the time it takes for you to transfer files to the Internet) and download speeds (the time it takes for computers on the Internet to transfer files to you). Upload and download speeds will be different.
Step3
Compare prices for relative speeds.
Step4
Find out what equipment will be installed.
Step5
Compare installation and setup fees, if any.
Step6
Find out when technical support is available. Look for 7-day, 24-hour support if you need it.
Step7
Compare additional ISP features such as Web hosting space, additional e-mail accounts, domain name aliases and other features, if you need them.
Step8
Consider your current satisfaction with the service, especially customer service, provided by your telephone company before choosing it to be your ISP.
Step9
Compare service-term commitments, if any.
Step10
Ask about potential rate increases.

Tips & Warnings

  • The actual DSL line comes from your telephone company, regardless of whether you purchase service from them or another ISP. Your telephone company must evaluate your telephone line to determine if it can be used for DSL. (See the related eHow "How to Find a DSL Provider in Your Area.")
  • Expect a maximum download speed of 1.5 Mbps and a maximum upload speed of 386 Kbps from a common type of DSL called "G.Lite." (G.Lite is slower than normal ADSL, or asynchronous DSL.) Keep in mind, though, that phone companies usually only guarantee speeds of 383 Kbps for downloads and 128 Kbps for uploads.

Comments

| View All Comments
Flag This Comment

on 5/27/2008 I found this article to be very informative. Thanks for sharing.

http://www.1-satellite-tv-facts.com/T1-Internet-Service.html
http://www.1-satellite-tv-facts.com/Satellite-DSL.html
http://www.1-satellite-tv-facts.com/Satellite-Internet.html

View All

Post a Comment

POST A COMMENT

Request a New How-To Article

Looking for more How To information? Chances are there’s an eHow member who knows how to do what you’re looking to do. Submit an article request now!

eHow Article:  How to Evaluate a DSL Provider

eHow Internet Editor

eHow Internet Editor

Category: Internet

Articles: See my other articles

Related Ads

Internet

Veesites
Meet Virginia DeBolt eHow’s Internet Expert.