Connecting With DSL
- What is it?
- How does it work?
- How much is it?
- Why is it better than cable?
What is it?
DSL, or ASDL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), uses a regular phone line and broadband communication technology to connecto to the World Wide Web. It averages 140 times faster than the best analog modem connection. DSL is popular because it is always on, and you can talk on the phone while you are connected. It can download data at speeds ranging from 256 kilobits per second up to 8 megabits per second.
How does it work?
DSL works by "piggybacking" the voice signal on phone lines. It splits the phone line into two frequency ranges, one for voice and one for data. This enables you to use the line for both talking and connecting to the Internet. It is called "asymmetric" DSL because more bandwidth is reserved for receiving data than for sending. This is useful because most people receive more data from the Internet than they send.
How much is it?
The cost of DSL is resonable with other Internet connections. The cost comprises of three things: the cost of the DSL modem, the monthly fee and installation charges, and the monthly cost of the ISP (Internet Service Provider).
Why is it better than cable?
DsL has an advantage over cable modems. Cable modems also offer always on service, but over a shared cable television line. For cable modems, the bandwidth is shared among all users in a neighborhood. This may slow service during high traffic times. The biggest difference though is that 50-60% of homes are ready for DSL service while only 20% of homes have the necessary wiring for cable modems.
Overall DSL is a great alternative to analog dial-up Internet connection. It is quick, affordable, and growing faster day by day.
Main Points
- DSL, or ASDL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), uses a regular phone line and broadband communication technology to connecto to the World Wide Web.
- It splits the phone line into two frequency ranges, one for voice and one for data, enabling you to use the line for both talking and connecting to the Internet.
- The cost of DSL is resonable with other Internet connections.
- DSL is better than cable modems because for cable modems, the bandwidth is shared among all users in a neighborhood, and this may slow service during high traffic times.
Source: http://www.dsllife.com