How to Find the Speed of DSL in My Area

DSL modem

Digital subscriber line, or DSL, Internet service is a popular form of home access available to consumers. DSL technology uses a standard, analog, telephone landline to connect you to the Internet; so, as long as you have home phone service, you should be able to contract with a provider for DSL service. Internet speeds vary, including from property to property through the same provider. You can determine what speeds are available in your area by contacting every DSL provider in your area, but there are a few important things to consider.

Things You'll Need

• Landline telephone service

Instructions

Landline Can Deliver DSL

1. Verify telephone service in your house. To contract with an Internet service provider (ISP) for DSL Internet service, you will need at least one telephone jack in your house that transmits a dial tone. If you do not have phone service, contact a provider about installing it. If you do have landline service, make sure you have at least one phone jack that is not being utilized. Also, make sure the jack is working by plugging in a telephone and checking for a dial tone.

2. Determine your Internet needs and your budget. Get an idea of what type of Internet speeds you will need based on the reasons you use the Internet. For instance, a person who hosts a website from home or spends hours gaming online will require a faster Internet speed package than someone who uses the Web to check e-mail or read the news. Once you have this information and have determined your budget, you are ready to contact ISPs.

3. Determine the DSL providers that operate in your area and contact them. Run an Internet search for "DSL service" and include the name of your town inside the search quotes, or look in the phone book under "Internet service providers." When you speak to their sales representatives, inquire as to what speeds they offer in your area and provide the salesperson with your budget and what speeds you think you will need. All of this information taken together should allow you to choose an Internet package that will meet your needs and that you can afford.