Introduction to Cable and DSLIf you're looking for life in the fast lane, and are interested in delving into the world of high-speed internet access for your home or office, there are two main contenders:
DSL
CableThe services are similar in that they'll offer you super-fast Web surfing; at least three times as fast as dial-up. They'll also allow you to download files, stream video or send sizable emails multiple times faster than dial-up. So, you can finally send those pictures of your kiddies to mom and dad.
Differences Between Cable and DSLBut, there are differences between cable and DSL that may affect which of these services you select.
Cable Versus DSL on BandwidthWinning the bandwidth or speed battle is usually 'Cable' modem Internet services. Cable download speeds are up to 2 times faster than DSL. But cable services can slow down significantly if many people are accessing the Internet at the same time in the same area. Basically, the same cable line often connects to many households in your neighborhood, so if you and your neighbor are both using the service at once, your speed may suffer and become more sluggish. That's also the reason why cable modem services may not always be as secure as DSL.
Cable Versus DSL on SecuritySince cable uses a shared line, anyone in your neighborhood could potentially access the same local area network or LAN that you use, and be able to click on your Windows Network. That means they could see your personal information or even download copies of your data. Make sure to put the proper security measures in place - like a firewall and anti-virus software - no matter which service you decide on.So, winning the battle over best security, definitely DSL!
Cable Versus DSL on InstallationWhen it comes to installation, cable has a leg up. All you have to do is call the cable guy and get the new line installed and then you connect the line to your modem. It's as easy as hooking up your VCR to your television.With DSL you'll need a phone line and it may require you to take multiple steps on your computer after you install the DSL modem that the phone company provides. You may also be required to put filters on all of your additional phone jacks.
Buy Cable or DSLThe last thing to consider is cost. DSL tends to be less expensive than cable. With DSL, look for package deals through your phone company that may also reduce your phone bill. Here's the catch with cable modem services, if you don't subscribe to cable then you may have to pay an additional monthly fee for the service. But cable subscribers should also search for package deals. The champ in the cost arena is DSL.Again, you can't go wrong with either service, and not all cities or locations offer both so your choice may be limited to one or the other. But, my pick for the overall winner in what is a very close match? CABLE. I'm Brett Larson, About Gadgets.
DSL
CableThe services are similar in that they'll offer you super-fast Web surfing; at least three times as fast as dial-up. They'll also allow you to download files, stream video or send sizable emails multiple times faster than dial-up. So, you can finally send those pictures of your kiddies to mom and dad.
Differences Between Cable and DSLBut, there are differences between cable and DSL that may affect which of these services you select.
Cable Versus DSL on BandwidthWinning the bandwidth or speed battle is usually 'Cable' modem Internet services. Cable download speeds are up to 2 times faster than DSL. But cable services can slow down significantly if many people are accessing the Internet at the same time in the same area. Basically, the same cable line often connects to many households in your neighborhood, so if you and your neighbor are both using the service at once, your speed may suffer and become more sluggish. That's also the reason why cable modem services may not always be as secure as DSL.
Cable Versus DSL on SecuritySince cable uses a shared line, anyone in your neighborhood could potentially access the same local area network or LAN that you use, and be able to click on your Windows Network. That means they could see your personal information or even download copies of your data. Make sure to put the proper security measures in place - like a firewall and anti-virus software - no matter which service you decide on.So, winning the battle over best security, definitely DSL!
Cable Versus DSL on InstallationWhen it comes to installation, cable has a leg up. All you have to do is call the cable guy and get the new line installed and then you connect the line to your modem. It's as easy as hooking up your VCR to your television.With DSL you'll need a phone line and it may require you to take multiple steps on your computer after you install the DSL modem that the phone company provides. You may also be required to put filters on all of your additional phone jacks.
Buy Cable or DSLThe last thing to consider is cost. DSL tends to be less expensive than cable. With DSL, look for package deals through your phone company that may also reduce your phone bill. Here's the catch with cable modem services, if you don't subscribe to cable then you may have to pay an additional monthly fee for the service. But cable subscribers should also search for package deals. The champ in the cost arena is DSL.Again, you can't go wrong with either service, and not all cities or locations offer both so your choice may be limited to one or the other. But, my pick for the overall winner in what is a very close match? CABLE. I'm Brett Larson, About Gadgets.
Are you tired of your slow modem chugging along and taking 3 hours to download the latest and greatest software updates? You don't have to face that problem anymore in most areas of Little Rock! High speed Internet access is available and most of your friends probably already have either cable modem access or DSL. Southwestern Bell says DSL is better than cable. Comcast says it's faster than DSL. What do you do? Who do you choose? I've had both running and am here to dish the dirt on the two major broadband Internet providers in Little Rock.
Good news about both:
Cable or DSL Internet access will both free up your phone line so you can make calls and surf the Internet at the same time. They will also both make downloading things like music and video quicker. Both can be configured for wireless access at your house and both can connect multiple home computers to one Internet connection.
Is it available?
First things first, you may not have a choice. DSL is location specific. You have to be close to the central office (or a DSL hub). If you're not, you're just going to have to choose a cable provider, like Comcast. Luckily, most areas in Little Rock have access to a DSL hub. Which is Faster?
Speedwise, I find both basic accounts are comparable. Speed of the DSL is relative to line condition and distance from the central office. Cable modem speed is less dependant on location. In my experience, if you have a good DSL connection the speed will be more stable than a good cable connection. Either way, both are FAST.
The basic account on Comcast offers 4 Mbps/384 Kbps. The basic account on SBC offers 1.5Mbps/384Kbps. Those are the "top speeds." I rarely acheive those speeds when I test my line. Both companies also offer enhanced accounts with even more speed. Which is Easier?
In the ease of use department, Comcast is king! You turn on your computer and you're online. You have to "connect" to Southwestern Bell DSL unless you modify your setup a bit. That is an inconvenience, but it's not that big of a drawback. The connection rarely times out. If you keep your computer on, you can basically be online 24 hours a day. I've left mine on for a week before disconnecting with no problems. How about the Install?
This will depend on the situation. If you have a security system or bad wiring, DSL will be hard to set up by yourself. Even the SBC technicians refused to install mine over a security system. If you don't have any special circumstances, you won't even see the tech. They send you a package in the mail with phone line filters that just plug into place and you're set.
Comcast also has self-install kits but cable can be a bit tricky to install. For best results, the modem should be on a main cable line instead of a branched line. If you've had cable for a while and have it in many rooms in your house it could be difficult to find a satisfactory cable. To make things more difficult, splitting a cable with even a high quality splitter can make connections less stable. The best choice is to have a technician install a new, dedicated line for your modem. They normally charge a fee for this but it's an investment worth making. Which is Cheaper?
Price is the next biggest factor. SBC normally has specials running (currently $14.95 if you sign a one-year contract) on the service. Modems and routers are purchased for about $99-149. The self install kit costs vary.
Comcast charges $42.95/month for current cable customers. Their enhanced service with faster speeds is $10 more. You can either buy a modem or rent it for $7 a month. The self install kit is $29.95 plus shipping. Professional installation is about $100.The Bottom Line
I like both and I really can't tell that much of a difference. Comcast seems more user friendly and they have an idiot proof "member center" where you can setup new things on your account, talk to tech support, test your connection, etc. No matter what you choose be sure to tweak your settings or you'll lose lots of speed. Have fun and be sure to check out this site when you get your super fast connection!
Good news about both:
Cable or DSL Internet access will both free up your phone line so you can make calls and surf the Internet at the same time. They will also both make downloading things like music and video quicker. Both can be configured for wireless access at your house and both can connect multiple home computers to one Internet connection.
Is it available?
First things first, you may not have a choice. DSL is location specific. You have to be close to the central office (or a DSL hub). If you're not, you're just going to have to choose a cable provider, like Comcast. Luckily, most areas in Little Rock have access to a DSL hub. Which is Faster?
Speedwise, I find both basic accounts are comparable. Speed of the DSL is relative to line condition and distance from the central office. Cable modem speed is less dependant on location. In my experience, if you have a good DSL connection the speed will be more stable than a good cable connection. Either way, both are FAST.
The basic account on Comcast offers 4 Mbps/384 Kbps. The basic account on SBC offers 1.5Mbps/384Kbps. Those are the "top speeds." I rarely acheive those speeds when I test my line. Both companies also offer enhanced accounts with even more speed. Which is Easier?
In the ease of use department, Comcast is king! You turn on your computer and you're online. You have to "connect" to Southwestern Bell DSL unless you modify your setup a bit. That is an inconvenience, but it's not that big of a drawback. The connection rarely times out. If you keep your computer on, you can basically be online 24 hours a day. I've left mine on for a week before disconnecting with no problems. How about the Install?
This will depend on the situation. If you have a security system or bad wiring, DSL will be hard to set up by yourself. Even the SBC technicians refused to install mine over a security system. If you don't have any special circumstances, you won't even see the tech. They send you a package in the mail with phone line filters that just plug into place and you're set.
Comcast also has self-install kits but cable can be a bit tricky to install. For best results, the modem should be on a main cable line instead of a branched line. If you've had cable for a while and have it in many rooms in your house it could be difficult to find a satisfactory cable. To make things more difficult, splitting a cable with even a high quality splitter can make connections less stable. The best choice is to have a technician install a new, dedicated line for your modem. They normally charge a fee for this but it's an investment worth making. Which is Cheaper?
Price is the next biggest factor. SBC normally has specials running (currently $14.95 if you sign a one-year contract) on the service. Modems and routers are purchased for about $99-149. The self install kit costs vary.
Comcast charges $42.95/month for current cable customers. Their enhanced service with faster speeds is $10 more. You can either buy a modem or rent it for $7 a month. The self install kit is $29.95 plus shipping. Professional installation is about $100.The Bottom Line
I like both and I really can't tell that much of a difference. Comcast seems more user friendly and they have an idiot proof "member center" where you can setup new things on your account, talk to tech support, test your connection, etc. No matter what you choose be sure to tweak your settings or you'll lose lots of speed. Have fun and be sure to check out this site when you get your super fast connection!
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