DSL vs. Cable Internet

Unless you work and live in a rural area, you most probably have the option of leaving dial-up connection and moving to high speed internet service. When it comes to high speed internet, currently there are two options available; DSL provided by phone companies and Internet provided by Cable companies. In the lines under we shall compare and contrast between the advantages and disadvantages of both the service providers.

Speed: The speed that DSL offers to users is between 128kbps-3mbps.On contrary Cable Internet is 2 times faster. But the thing with Cable Internet is that, it works on a shared bandwidth system. Meaning that, many subscribers are linked to a single line. So the speed fluctuates depending on the number of subscribers. More the subscribers the less the speed, and vice versa. On the other hand DSL is single devoted line, and there is always a steady speed. So if you are a user in a rural area with limited number of subscribers, then cable internet might serve the purpose. But if you live in a metropolitan area then DSL is the better option.

Price: Prior to the introduction of Cable internet, the prices for DSL were quite high. But after that there has been a considerable fall in the prices of DSL, yet they are a little high as compared to Cable internet. With both the services you generally pay a one-time setup fee. With cable this fee can end up being round about $50-$100, on the other hand DSL is a bit expensive and could end up about $150.Cable is cheap when it comes to monthly bill, it is about $40-$50 per month, while DSL tends to be $5-$10 more expensive .Besides the first time setup, either service providers can offer you different discount packages; like introductory offers and different bundle plans. Cable services can offer you “surf and watch” bundle, that lets you use internet and watch cable channels. But in a competitive corporate environment, DSL takes the lead by offering “surf and talk” bundle. With this offer you can use internet besides talking on the phone either in your home or at your business.

Security: Security is the main concerns when it comes to choosing between both the services. Cable internet is based on a shared network, where the subscribers are on LAN with each other in a particular area. So the security is a bit vulnerable. Though Cable internet service providers do offer cable modems with security features in their hardware. But still it is subjected to security failures. While there is no such issue with DSL provided by phone service. It is a single dedicated line with no sharing, so your security is in your own hands. And no one else can break into your network.

All in all if you are a user/business in a metropolitan area, where both the services are available. The best option will be to go for DSL provided by phone companies. Though the price will be a little high, but you will have a dedicated line to yourself; so that you don’t face any speed fluctuations while you are surfing. Alongside that, DSL is really important for businesses because there is minimum security risk and you don’t have to share your line with other subscribers as is the case with Cable internet.