When it comes to Internet use today, everybody's looking for the best service and fastest speeds available. The two most popular Internet connections - DSL (digital subscriber line) and cable - both offer speeds from at least three to 70 times faster than dial-up as well as many advantages to their subscribers. So when it comes to choosing between the two services, which is best?
DSL vs. Cable - Raw Connection Speeds
When you look at the raw speed numbers for DSL (which offers dedicated, non-shared local Internet bandwidth) and cable (shared bandwidth connections), cable comes out ahead. With today's wideband technologies, cable speeds can reach up to 50 to 60 Mbps in many markets with even faster connections planned over the next couple of years. DSL speeds for widely available ADSL and SDSL products reach speeds of approximately 10 Mbps. VDSL connection speeds can rival cable, but VDSL is not widely available, limiting a customer's options.
DSL vs. Cable - Real-Life Connection Speeds
It's important to remember that connection speeds can be greatly reduced by a number of factors.
If you choose to connect to the Internet through cable, many people in a given neighborhood will be connected to the same Internet access line simultaneously. And the more people online at any time, the slower your actual Internet connection will be. Both cable and DSL connections vary on a moment-by-moment basis depending on use and traffic congestion on the Internet itself.
Both DSL and cable Internet providers may also cap the speed of your connection depending on the level of your Internet use in order to create a more level playing field for customers who may not use a high amount of bandwidth during their online access.
You should also bear in mind that your computer's processor speed, as well as your home network, may not be able to take advantage of the fastest Internet speeds; this, too, can decrease the speed of your Internet connection.
DSL vs. Cable - Online Security
Since DSL subscribers do not share their Internet connection with other customers, a DSL Internet connection is very secure. If you choose cable Internet services, many homes in your surrounding neighborhoods will have access to the same connection. For this reason you need to secure your cable connection by managing your firewall settings and keeping your anti-virus software on and up-to-date.
DSL vs. Cable - Customer Service
Ultimately if you have a choice in your area between cable and DSL providers, it's important to consider a company's ratings when it comes to customer support, connection speeds offered, reliability, and performance.
