Cable or DSL Broadband?
Author: FullService Broadband Provider

I've been asked this question so many times I thought I'd put
my thoughts down here for you to read. Let's start by pointing
out a couple things first. First off, depending on where you
live, you may not have a choice of access. Satellite may be
your only choice, which makes this null and void. Don't fret,
satellite is better than any dial-up and the contract lengths
are generally 12-14 months in length. It will cost a bit more,
given the extra equipment involved, but it certainly beats
dial-up (if you can afford it).

Ok, on to the two major broadband access methods, cable and
DSL. When I'm asked this question, I usually follow it with
questions of my own.

1st. What type of internet surfing do you do? Are you a gamer,
shopper, email user, web developer, music downloader, online
video watcher, video editor or casual surfer?

2nd. How many computers will you have connected to the internet
at one time?

3rd. Do you plan on 'leveraging' your broadband investment for
home security or VoIP? (Voice over Internet Protocol is a
method of making and receiving your phone calls using your
broadband connection.)

When making your decision keep in mind that cable access,
generally, cost more. The higher cost comes with the benefits
of more speed. Up to 6 meg download, or the amount of
information you can receive 'down' from the internet.

Loading web pages, listening to music online or watching video
online are all impacted by your download speed. DSL is about
1.5 meg down in comparison. Not only does this impact 'your'
surfing behavior, but if you plan to have more than 1 computer
access the internet at the same time, keep in mind you're
'sharing' this connection. Sharing the connection means sharing
that download 'pipe'. (your internet connection) Uploading to
the internet (file attachments in email, uploading web pages,
etc. impact your upload speed. Cable upload speeds are around
384K while DSL is around 128K.

If you wish to leverage your investment in broadband by using
VoIP, keep in mind that DSL is provided through the copper
wires of your phone line. Having VoIP as a primary phone line
without local phone service is very, very rare. This type of
access is called 'naked DSL' and is not very common. We hope
this will change in time, but for now, check with your local
phone company. If you plan on leveraging your investment, check
first.

So the answer to the question Cable or DSL is really all about
your usage and what you're willing to pay. Yes, cable is more
expensive but it also comes with the additional benefits of
faster speed and the ability to leverage your investment using
VoIP as a primary phone service.

Lastly, when I'm asked what I personally use at home? I use
cable broadband access and VoIP phone service. I'm very pleased
with both and don't plan on changing any time soon.

If you're still unsure which is right for you, there are many
web sites out there to provide you with additional information.
Our site can help you as well so we hope to see you there!

Happy surfing.


About The Author: Provided by the FullService Broadband
Provider - http://www.fullservice-broadband-provider We provide
unbiased and informative information on broadband and
communication products and services. Our free service is
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