Dsl Upgrade

Many people start out looking for a faster internet connection by comparing DSL and cable modems. It is initially assumed that one may provide an advantage or benefit over the other. In reality, however, the choice you make may depend on what is available in your area. In some cases you may be able to select either option. In other cases, your selection will be confined to the service providers in your area.

Theoretically, from a raw cable modem versus DSL standpoint, cable internet should provide faster transfer speeds than DSL. In reality, this does not always play out. Although cable modems can reach speeds of up to 30 mbps downstream, the average speed is between 5-6 mbps downstream and 384 kbps upstream. For DSL internet, bandwidth is generally from 756kbps to 6mbps. In general, the higher the access plan charge for DSL, the greater the speed.

Real world conditions play a part in the speed of cable access. DSL service is dedicated between the users location and the nearest central office of your ISP. Cable access users a shared connection. End users on a cable connection can face reduced speeds if many people in the neighborhood access the internet simultaneously. Both services may also be subject to varying speeds depending on network patterns of use and traffic congestion on the internet. Peak access times can play a part in determining this. Additionally, speed caps are sometimes imposed by ISP's that limit bandwidth or throttle network packets. This can significantly degrade access speed.

Other factors that should be considered when comparing cable modem and DSL include security. DSL is generally considered more secure because it is using a dedicated connection. Cable modes, due to the shared nature of the services, can be subject to eavesdropping, theft and denial of service. Installation fees can vary and because hardware and installation is often different depending on the service provider is difficult to come to any definitive conclusion without investigating cable modems vs DSL plans.

From a price perspective, DSL tends to be roughly half the cost of cable internet. DSL plans may also include reconnection fees if you happen to move to a new location and require reconnection.

The actual end speed of a DSL connection will also depend on the proximity to the service provider and the quality of the copper lines. The further the connection from the service provider the more the connection speed will suffer.

When it comes to cable modem versus DSL the above factors need to be considered. Ultimately the decision will depend on plan prices and the availability of service providers and the above ancillary variables that can contribute to overall speed and performance.

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