Cable or DSL Broadband?

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:
FullService
Broadband provider. We provide unbiased and informative
information on broadband and communication products and
services. Our free service is possible through Try Right Technology, Inc.