Internet Service Comparison: DSL Vs. Cable Vs. Dial-Up Vs. Satellite

Although television and radio advertisements generally tout one type of internet service as better than the others, DSL, satellite, cable, and dial-up internet access all offer some benefits as well as disadvantages.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line): This type of internet access enables websites and files to load very quickly, and it tends to be less expensive than cable internet service. It may or may not be cheaper than dial-up access, depending upon the internet service providers available in your area. DSL is not available in some rural areas. It connects to your computer through an external modem which is plugged into a telephone jack and attaches to the computer with a USB or Ethernet cable. Although DSL comes through your telephone line, you don't have to dial into it, and it doesn't prevent you from using the telephone or receiving calls - one of its best advantages in comparison to dial-up internet service. According to Wikipedia.org, a fax machine or regular dial-up modem can be used at the same time as a DSL modem, on the same phone line. This makes it possible to connect two computers to the internet at the same time with one phone line, if one uses dial-up and the other DSL. If you have an older computer, the system requirements for DSL may make it necessary to upgrade or replace it. For example, Verizon DSL requires Windows 98 or later, a 266MHz or faster CPU, and at least 64MB of memory. DSL can also be used on some Apple Macintosh computers; other system requirements apply. A different type of DSL, called "naked DSL", is also available but less common; it allows users to access DSL service without having a regular telephone subscription. This might be attractive to those who only use a cell phone or, as an article on CNet.com suggests, want to use Voice-Over-Internet-Protocol instead of a telephone.