Broadband DSL
What
does DSL stand for?
DSL
stands for “Digital Subscriber Line”. It is a family of technologies
that provides digital data transmission over the wires of local telephone
network. The connection speed of DSL varies greatly ranging from 128 Kbps
to 24 Mbps depending on service plans and ISP. Most DSL internet providers
offer ADSL service to home users. ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital
Subscriber Line which indicates a difference in upload and download speed
(the upload speed is usually lower than the download speed). In contrast,
Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL) offers equal download and
upload speed.
How
does DSL work?
DSL
technology transfers data from the computer to the phone line via a DSL
modem. The DSL modem converts digital data from the computer into a voltage
signal of a suitable frequency range which is then transmitted over the
phone wire. DSL technology allows simultaneous transmission of digital data
and voice services, so phone and fax usage is not affected when you are
connected to the internet.
Unlike
cable internet which offers service to multiple users by sharing the same
cable, DSL provides a dedicated connection. However, the distance of your
phone line from the ISP operation center could affect the connection speed.
Advantages of DSL
1. Connection speed is much faster than dialup internet access.
2. You can
use the same phone line for internet and phone services, that is, your voice
/ fax services are not affected while you are connected to the internet.
3. More and more phone lines are now equipped for DSL services.
DSL is available in more service areas than cable internet.
4. Dedicated connection. Connection speed is not affected by
the number of users in your neighborhood.
5. Easy setup. Service plan does not need to be tied with cable
TV service.
Disadvantages of DSL
1. Slightly higher cost than dialup internet access.
2. Higher security risk than dialup connection. A personal
firewall is needed to protect your computer.
3. Not all phone wires are equipped for DSL service. May not
be available in rural or remote areas.
4. Connection speed is affected by the distance between your
phone line and ISP operation center.
5. Usually, you can only get special discount or activate your
DSL service when you use the same ISP for your local phone service.
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