HELP:
DSL and cable |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
What are they? (definition of the terms) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
DSL stands for "digital subscriber line". And of course "cable" refers to the same line you use for your cable tv. |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
. |
How do they work? |
DSL uses frequencies on the telephone lines that we normally don't use. You can actually talk on the phone and go online with your computer at the same time. With DSL you are always connected. There is no time spent dialing up and waiting to be connected. You are connected 24 hours a day. Cable uses the cable line that people normally use for their television to get cable tv, only now you can have cable tv and connect to the internet much faster. So, forget about worrying whether you can use your phone, the line is free and you are always connected. |
How fast can they connect to the internet? |
| DSL and cable connect 10 to 500 times faster than a standard 28 to 56k modem. Some connections are even faster depending on what you order. Instead of waiting a few minutes or even a minute for pages to download, pages will download in seconds. |
Can I keep my AOL ? |
| Yes, you can keep your AOL. AOL is now free. If you are paying for it (which you are probably not), then you have a problem because the rest of the world has it for free. Using AOL while you go "BROADBAND" IS easy. It takes about 2 minutes set up and takes about 3 steps on your computer. Anyone from AOL can walk you through it. When you are done you will be amazed. Your're always connected with your DSL or cable connection and now you will never have to wait to connect when you sign on. |
How much will it cost me? |
Most DSL and cable service starts at about $39 and up. It may depend on how fast you want to go. It can go up to hundreds of dollars. With DSL, you want to see how far you are from the phone company. If you live very far from the phone companies main phone lines, there may be a problem in getting the fastest line or getting a DSL connection at all. So, for about $40 dollars a month, you can connect very fast, use your phone at the same time (if you choose DSL), and always be connected without waiting to be signed on. Cable costs are very similar. |
DSL vs. cable ? |
DSL is your line. You share it with no one. Cable lines are shared and sometimes slow down due to many people using them at the same time (rush hour 4pm to 9 pm). Cable is not as finicky as DSL. A DSL line may need a few days or a few minor adjustments. DSL lines are faster when you live closer to the DSL companie's main phone line. Cable lines are the same speed no matter how far away you live from the company's equipment, lines, cables, or headquarters. Both DSL and cable are only available in certain areas at this time. Soon, both will be more readily available and both will be cheaper. |
What about free DSL ? |
Free DSL is an interesting concept. If you are thinking of this, look very carefully at the fine print for these companie's contracts. Usually there is a big fine if you cancel at any time. It can be as high as $500. Also, you will be subjected to many ad banners and changes in service at their will. You will probably be asked to sign a 2,3 or even 5 year contract. I would consider a free DSL service if it was month by month. But I would never sign a contract that kept me with a company for 2,3, or even 5 years. Think about all those people who got cell phones last year (1999) with what they thought were great deals and great service. We all know that it is so cheap now, a child could pay for a cell phone service and get the phone itself for free. Technology is changing and service is getting better and better. Don't get stuck in any service contract for more than 4-6 months. |