Home > Web Sites & Internet Services > ISP > Choosing a DSL Provider

DSL - An Introduction to Fast Internet Access

Apr 08 '00 Write an essay on this topic.

I have wanted fast Internet access for years. However, until now, there just weren’t any practical ways for me to get online any faster than my 56k modem. Internet access via cable is not yet available in my area, and ISDN was just too expensive for my budget. DSL recently became available in my area, and it is the answer to my prayers. I now enjoy much faster speeds at a reasonable fixed monthly rate. ( Note: An Epinion of my specific DSL provider can be found at:
http://www.epinions.com/cmd-review-3861-A837E82-38E38513-prod4 )

This review is not intended to promote any one DSL provider, but to give an overview of the DSL technology, some of its advantages, disadvantages, and a resource guide to help you locate a DSL provider in your area.

What is DSL ?
DSL is the common term for a technology known as ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line). In simple terms, DSL is fast Internet access that utilizes the phone wires you already have. ADSL technology uses part of the bandwidth of your telephone lines that voice communication does not. Therefore, users can be online, and make and receive telephone calls at the same time utilizing a single phone line.

Advantages of DSL
The primary advantage of DSL is, of course, the speed. Entry-level DSL plans with Bell Atlantic give the user 640 kb/sec downstream and 90 kb/sec upstream. Faster access is available at higher rates. Compared to a 56k modem, this speed is exhilarating. Speed aside, DSL can actually be less expensive than paying for a second phone line and an ISP. DSL rates are generally flat rates for unlimited access, which is much nicer than ISDN’s per-minute charges. Finally, DSL service can offer faster access than cable modems in congested areas. Cable users share bandwidth. As cable Internet subscribers increase, the available decreases. DSL customers, on the other hand, have dedicated lines. Therefore, new subscribers won’t have a major effect on bandwidth.

Disadvantages of DSL
The two main disadvantages to DSL are that it is not available for everyone, and it is still a new technology. DSL is not available for all users. Currently, a DSL subscriber must live within a given distance from phone switching equipment for DSL to work. This distance varies among DSL providers. Bell Atlantic will provide DSL only for users within 15,000 feet of their equipment. Ameritech, however, will provide service to users within 17,500 feet. Web sites do exist that can point you towards possible providers; however, the only real way to know if your home is supported is to speak with the companies that service your area.

As DSL is still very new technology, not many people are trained to install, support, or maintain the service. This not only means service and installation delays, but also more problems than with a typical ISP. With my previous ISP, having the network unavailable was a rare occurrence. When problems did occur, they were generally fixed within hours. Problems with DSL service seem to be more frequent and to last longer. In recognition of this fact, my DSL provider also provides dialup service as a backup for times when my DSL is down. In many areas, cable modem systems have been in place for a while now, and are more reliable. If reliability is an issue for you, and you live in an area where cable is available, cable access may be your best option. However, if you use the Internet mainly for fun, and can stand a little aggravation until the technology matures, DSL is still a viable option.

Depending on your provider, there may also be some security risks associated with DSL. Because many providers give users a static IP address and full time access, hackers can infiltrate your computer. My provider, Bell Atlantic, advises users to disable file and print sharing for that reason. However, DSL systems are considered by most to be more secure than cable modems.

How to Find DSL Service in Your Area
The best place to start is probably with your local phone company. They can tell you if you live in an area where DSL is available, and give you information on any DSL services that they might provide. Once you have determined that DSL is indeed available in your area, there are some resources available that will assist in finding the best provider.

DSL Finder:
http://www.dslreports.com/search

Comparison between DSL and Cable access:
http://macfixit.com/reports/cable-dsl.shtml

DSL information for Mac users
http://www.macdsl.netopia.com/

If DSL is not currently available where you live, do not despair. DSL service is expanding rapidly, and could arrive where you live very soon.

Conclusion
While DSL service may not suit everyone’s needs, it is still a great option for home users who crave fast access at a reasonable price. For Internet addicts who crave speed, or telecommuters who currently suffer with a 56k connection, DSL is a godsend. In my opinion, however, DSL should be avoided until the technology matures if you do not tolerate problems well.

Read all comments (9)|Write your own comment

Write an essay on this topic.

Share with your friends