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When you're searching for a new internet provider or plan, you'll notice that you'll come across two types of connection quite frequently: Cable and DSL services. But, do you know what they are, how they work and whether they're still viable options in today's world? HomeLinkd gives you everything you need to know about Cable and DSL connections - from their connection speeds to providers to available plans. So, the only question you'll need to ask yourself at the end is, "DSL or cable internet?"
Cable internet service uses the same coaxial cables that deliver cable TV into people's homes. In fact, if you have cable TV, then you likely already have the infrastructure in place to get cable internet. As the name suggests, these cables are made of copper wire and are capable of carrying a lot of data at high speeds - which is perfect for streaming movies and TV shows, as well as playing online games. The main advantage of cable internet is that it's widely available across the United States. In fact, there's a good chance that you already have access to a cable connection - all you need to do is sign up with a cable internet provider.
DSL, or Digital Subscriber Line, is a type of internet connection that uses your existing phone line to deliver high-speed internet into your home. While this might sound like a slower option compared to cable, DSL speeds can actually be quite fast - and they're getting faster all the time as technology improves. One of the main advantages of DSL is that it's widely available across the United States. In fact, there's a good chance that you already have access to a DSL connection - all you need to do is sign up with a DSL internet provider.
There are two main types of DSL internet service:
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL): This is the most common type of DSL connection. With ADSL, you'll get faster download speeds than upload speeds. This is perfect for activities like streaming movies and TV shows, as well as downloading files.
Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL): With SDSL, you'll get equal download and upload speeds. This is perfect for activities that require a lot of data to be uploaded, such as video conferencing or uploading large files.
The main difference between DSL and cable internet is the infrastructure that's used to deliver the service.
DSL uses your existing phone line, while cable internet uses the same coaxial cables that deliver cable TV into people's homes.
Another difference is that DSL speeds can be asymmetric - meaning that you'll get faster download speeds than upload speeds. With cable internet, you'll usually get symmetrical speeds, meaning that your download and upload speeds will be equal.
Finally, DSL is widely available across the United States, while cable internet is only available in certain areas.
When looking for a new internet service or provider, you're likely to look at factors such as speed, provider, plans and price. Let's take a look at what DSL and cable connections have to offer:
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an internet connection is speed.
DSL speeds have improved a lot in recent years and are now capable of reaching up to 100 Mbps in some cases - which is fast enough for activities like streaming movies and TV shows, as well as downloading files.
Cable internet speeds are even faster, with most providers offering speeds of 50 Mbps or more. This is perfect for activities that require a lot of data to be uploaded, such as video conferencing or uploading large files.
DSL is offered by a number of different providers, including AT&T, Verizon, CenturyLink and Frontier. However, DSL provider AT&T is slowly phasing out its DSL service to make way for its fiber-optic internet offerings.
Cable internet is also offered by a number of different providers, including Comcast, Time Warner Cable and Cox.
DSL plans typically start at around $30 per month, while cable plans start at around $40 per month. However, prices will vary depending on the provider and the speed of the connection.
DSL and cable internet providers typically offer a range of different plans to choose from.
The main difference between the plans is the speed of the connection. However, there may also be differences in the amount of data that's included, as well as the price.
In order to connect to the internet, you'll need a router and a modem.
With DSL, you'll usually get a combined modem/router unit from your provider. This will have everything you need to connect to the internet - all you need to do is plug it in and follow the instructions.
With cable, you'll usually need to rent a cable modem from your provider. However, you can also buy your own modem if you prefer. You'll also need a router, which you can either buy or rent from your provider.
DSL installation is usually pretty straightforward. All you need to do is plug in the modem/router unit and follow the instructions.
Cable installation is a little more complicated. First, you need to install the modem and router. Then, you need to connect the modem to the cable outlet using a coaxial cable. Finally, you need to connect the router to the modem using an Ethernet cable.
Newer, faster broadband internet services are starting to become available in some areas - such as fiber and 5G.
These newer services are much faster than DSL and cable, and they're also less expensive. For example, Google Fiber offers speeds of up to 1 Gbps for just $70 per month.
5G is also becoming available in some areas, and it promises speeds of up to 10 Gbps. However, 5G is still in its early stages and it's not widely available yet.
So, while newer, faster services are starting to become available, they're not yet widespread enough to make DSL and cable go extinct. In the meantime, DSL and cable are still the best options for most people.
Yes, DSL and cable can offer high-speed internet - but only in certain areas.
For example, Verizon's FiOS service offers speeds of up to 150 Mbps in some areas. Comcast's Xfinity service also offers speeds of up to 150 Mbps in some areas.
However, these services are only available in certain parts of the country. In most cases, DSL and cable speeds are much slower than fiber and 5G speeds.
DSL and cable are both perfectly viable options for many people. They're widely available and offer speeds that are fast enough for most people's needs. However, they may not be the newest or the fastest option. Whether you're looking for DSL or cable internet connection, or if you're looking for something more reliable than DSL (think fiber or 5G), HomeLinkd is sure to have a plan with your name on it. Get high-speed internet access at affordable prices with our easy-to-use platform. Compare plans and providers in the comfort of your own home, today.
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