Cable vs DSL

With a significant rise in the number of internet users there is an ever increasing demand for hi-speed internet access across the world. The use of new and upcoming rich applications requires access to high speed data transmitting bandwidth. The meaning of cable or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) connections cannot be explained in a few sentences. In simple terms both are extremely complex technologies facilitating internet connectivity. Nowadays, speed defines what you can access on the web. It is likely that you and your wife are no longer interested in only reading emails, chatting, and browsing the net for textual information. You want much more. It is likely that

• You want to use interactive and rich applications without any delays,
• You enjoy high definition audio and video streaming,
• You want to generate your own content and upload it
• You want to get live updates,

All this and much more can be possible with high speed internet connectivity. With a simple idea of what internet connectivity is and what it can do for you let us take a look at faster internet services like DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) and Cable/wireless broadband services that has become an affordable and popular choice for home connections.

What is DSL?

DSL is the technology used by telephone service providers for offering high-speed data plans. Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) uses the traditional copper telephone cable to provide high speed data transmission. The data transmission can facilitate both voice service and non voice data traffic. Most commonly used residential services include asymmetric DSL and ADSL. ADSL services offer downloads at speeds ranging from 1.5 Mbps to 5 Mbps or 8 Mbps. The latest technologies can support download speeds of 20-30 Mbps. These offer faster and richer data streaming and downloads. The only problem with using DSL to that it requires traditional copper wiring and optical fiber to facilitate higher data transmission. In short, the(Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) can be considered is a dedicated digital telephone line to the Internet.

What is Cable?

Cable internet is based on the premise that where T.V. can be available internet can surely be made available. Use of digital technologies allows cable providers to offer other services like high speed Internet access and cable telephony. This means that the normal cable used to serve your TV connection can be used for internet as well. There is no additional physical cable required if your cable TV provider is also an ISP (which usually most of the leading players in the market are). Like DSL cable technology provides a high bandwidth and a dedicated connection to the Internet.

What are the major common features in Cable and DSL?

• Unlike the dial up connection, your computer is always connected to the Internet and you are not required to manually connect to the net.
• You get high speed internet connectivity enabling faster downloading speed.

Comparison Factors

Both DSL and Cable usually cost the same. There is fierce competition in this niche and the average cost offered by most of the providers is quite low as compared to last year. The rates are likely to vary in different geographical territories and the companies offer limited time promotions as well. The cost of cable or dsl internet is likely to be in the range of 40$-50$/month.

Quick Comparison Chart:

• . DSL and Cable both provide a static IP address to your PC.
• In both the cases you need a modem, either a DSL modem or a Cable modem, respectively. The modem can be provided by the Internet Service Provider (ISP) or you can purchase it on your own. Currently there are many promotions in the market. For example, for a limited time Comcast is providing a free Motorola wireless modem with a Power Boost internet plan in California.
• Both provide far greater speed than the dialup connection (56K).
• Additional PCs/laptops/Macs can be connected for an additional nominal fee per extra connection.
• DSL is a dedicated line for your internet. Cable is a shared line with your neighbors.
• DSL is considered more secure than Cable.

Availability

The choice for any of these options mainly depends upon the availability of the service in your area and apartment. Check DSL Availability

Setup

For a DSL connection a dedicated telephone line is required. If you do not have it, the phone company or the DSL service provider will set up the dedicated phone line for you.

Cable internet uses the cable that is used for your TV connection. If your ISP and TV cable service provider are different then a separate cable line may be used.

Please note that setting up the internet connectivity on PC might involve some network related configuration. The service provider will provide you with a start up kit and necessary instructions.

If you have a high speed internet connection, you can stream HD movies online, play games without interruptions, download your favorite music, upload and share photos, and access rich internet applications easily. Both the options have their own merits and demerits. You must choose between cable and DSL on the basis of your preference, availability, and cost.

Once you arrive in the U.S. on the H1 visa, you will realize that constant availability of information, access to feature rich applications, and complex data and video streaming is a way of life! Internet is an important part of our social and professional lives.