Slow, sort of slow, okay, fast and really fast. Those are words most of
us probably use to describe our Internet access. We shop around based on
what we want to do, email, downloading files, etc., and we go with a company
who offers decent prices. So what do all those Internet words and jargon
mean and how can knowing some details about it help you compare Internet providers and speeds?
First of all these days most of us opt for the two kinds of common broadband options over the slow dial-up modems of the past. You've most likely got a DSL line or a Cable modem.
DSL or digital subscriber line is a form of broadband technology that uses the copper phone wires to transmit and receive data.
DSL uses the phone line but you don't need a second line to use it. You'll
also need a DSL modem (which is often included in your package), an Ethernet
card and of course a provider.
A cable modem is delivered through the coaxial cables that bring you your favourite TV shows and movies. This type of service also requires a modem, Ethernet card and a provider.
There are debates about which is faster and many factors that can hinder or boost the speed. Currently there are more users of cable modems mostly because that service has been around longer than DSL. However, DSL technology is fast becoming more and more popular within the broadband market.
A few pros and cons: Cable tends to be more readily available and therefore often cheaper however DSL is often more easy to install. Security and performance are roughly the same so do a bit of searching on the net to find out what you want most out of your broadband service!
Cable companies deliver the Internet via the same coaxial cable that brings The Osbournes and 500 channels of quality programming to your TV set. As with DSL, you'll need a special modem and an Ethernet network card. Because cable modem access has been around longer than DSL, it boasts more users--about 10.4 million, vs. about 5.5 million for DSL, per Instat-MDR. And yet, misconceptions, including the following, abound.
