DSL Internet Providers VS Cable Internet Providers – What You Need to Know

This hub provides a general description of cable modem versus Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) Internet service hardware and security.

Hardware

Aside from having a personal connection device, either in the form of a PC or in the form of some other computerized access unit, the hardware needs for Internet connection include:

· An Ethernet card or a wireless Ethernet adapter
· A high-speed modem
· Twisted-pair Ethernet cable in the event that wireless access is lacking


All Things Ethernet

Ethernet cards, whether wireless or landlocked, are now common components of home computer systems. Unless you are establishing a landlocked network system, the basic twisted-pair cable needs will be furnished within the modem box.

Cable Internet Providers

There is an inherent difference between the design of a cable network and a telephone network. Cable internet providers use the technology to link broadcast cable TV and Internet access into a single package. The information delivery system is broadcast oriented. This means that all of the subscribers within a given area receive the same signals. This sharing of lines directly affects data transmission speeds. Thus the cable industry must master several customer service issues, including standards of performance and return-path capabilities.

The hierarchical nature of a cable network forces the use of two paths for data transmission: one up, one down. This means that unless two cables are provided, the second frequency band must be allocated onto the existing system. This complication affects only the cable modem, not your TV reception. On the plus side, the potential incoming cable bandwidth can clock in at ranges upwards to 30 megabits per second.

DSL Internet Providers

DSL technologies use advanced modulation schemes to piggyback Internet data onto existing telephone lines. The process utilizes your everyday telephone service. Unlike cable connections, DLS is not shared throughout the network. The process is circuit oriented. Your connection functions independent of your neighbors. Thus DSL provides a greater consistency in connection speeds.

With DSL, there is no need for a second phone line, even if you are supporting phone/FAX services. Just as cable connections can do TV and data simultaneously, DSL handles voice, FAX, and data without constraints.

For studies into the next-generation xDSL technology, look into Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Lines (ADSL), and Symmetric Digital Subscriber lines (SDSL). Both provide for greater high-bandwidth services.

Security

Whether cable modem or DSL modem, the service is provided in an “always on” condition. This makes security a critical issue. Our advice here:

· Use passwords, and make them strong
· Disable any form of file-sharing
· Install every OS security patch that your system supports
· Never operate without an installed and up-to-date anti-virus software package.

Speed

In the ISP world, you seldom get what you pay for, internet providers will quote a maximum speed and you will receive a percentage of this dependeding on factors such as your location . Check your speed often, and complain when you are not getting service for the price. As a general rule cable providers will deliver faster speeds than DSL due to the superior technology and bandwidth afforded by a fiber optic connection. DSL speeds reduce as they travel along the copper line so the further you are from the exchange hosting your conneciton the slower the speed will be. By comparison distance has a minimal impact on cable internet speeds.