| In the Web |
| High-speed Internet |
Unlike a few years ago, consumers now have more high-speed internet choices. Now, you can choose between DSL, Cable, or even Satellite access. But, which service is right for you or, as it may turn out, which service is available to you?
Consumers in larger metropolitan areas have more choices than those in more rural areas. Familiarize yourself with the services below and check with your local cable, telephone and satellite companies to find out which options may be available to you.
It is also important to note that all high speed Internet services are provided as "always on" - meaning you do not tie up a phone line while on the Internet and don't need to wait for your modem to "dial-up" every time you want access.
DSL - Digital Subscriber Line
DSL service is provided over your local phone lines. However, to get Internet access through most DSL service providers, your phone lines need to be fitted with special copper wires. In older cities and rural areas, such wires are not in widespread use so DSL service is limited to only those areas that have been upgraded.
Most phone companies now offer different access speeds at different monthly rates. Slower speeds being cheaper, the fastest being the most expensive.
Cable
High speed cable Internet access shares the existing coaxial and fiber cable lines that bring the television signals to your home. High speed cable Internet access is designed to transmit Internet information (packets) to your computer at high rates of speed. Your cable provider installs a special modem to one of your incoming cable lines. You will need a network card installed on your computer to receive the signal from the cable modem.
Satellite
If DSL and cable are not available to you, then your last available high speed Internet access option is Satellite service. While readily available, Satellite access is at least twice as expensive as DSL or cable. If cable and DSL are available, you will get better and faster access from them. However, if you are in a rural area, you aren't left with much choice.
The connection to your high speed satellite Internet service uses both indoor and outdoor equipment. Outside, there is the satellite dish and other transmit and receive electronics. This equipment connects by coaxial cable to the Indoor Receive Unit (IRU) and Indoor Transmit Unit (ITU) which connect to your computer through a simple USB connector.
| |
DSL Internet |
Cable Internet |
Satellite Internet |
| Max. High Speed |
Up To 1.5 Mbps |
Up To 3 Mbps |
Up To 1 Mbps |
| Avg. High Speed |
467 Kbps |
708 Kbps |
400 Kbps |
| Home Networking |
Available |
Available |
Not Available |
| "Always On" |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
| Internet Access |
Existing Phone Line |
Existing TV Cable |
Satellite Dish |
| Service Area |
Limited |
Limited |
Continental U.S. |
| Avg. Monthly Cost |
$35 to $60 |
$40 to $60 |
$100 |
|
