DSL vs Broadband
The main competition to DSL in the broadband front comprises of cable broadband and satellite broadband internet. Differences between the services include:
Of the available broadband technologies, cable has been the most popular with a 61% market share vs DSL. All in all, there are about 30 million U.S. households with broadband. DSL vs Broadband - AvailabilityOf the technologies, DSL is widely available in major cities, but less so in more rural areas. To check DSL coverage, your best bet is to go to the service providers web site, where there normally is a coverage map and/or a availability checker (availability of the service for your ZIP code). For example, Verizon is at about DSL 90% coverage in its service areas, BellSouth and SBC are at about 80%. Verizon also tries to cover additional areas with the wireless broadband CDMA 1X EV-DO technology. As for cable, availability of cable broadband is at about 85% for those that can get cable service in their area. Around 20% of cable TV customers have chosen to subscribe to cable Internet as well. Finally, satellite Internet service is available everywhere in the continental U.S., even in the rural areas. DSL vs Broadband - PriceThe prices for the competing services pretty much in the same range, at least for DSL and cable Internet. Here are some exemplary prices taken from the service providers (these services and pricings may not be available in your area, so always check availability and pricing). CABLE DSL SATELLITE INTERNET Comments: the availability edge of satellite internet is balanced out in the price (and performance) categories. Meanwhile, comparing DSL vs broadband cable, cable has gained a loyal following due to very high transmission speeds and DSL comparable prices. DSL vs Broadband - InstallationSome years ago DSL installations had a very bad reputation. However, from personal experience and from seems to be the general opinion, DSL self-installations of today are quick and easy (and the telephone support is very helpful, if you need any). For cable, there are similar options for self-installation, but many opt to have a professional install the service. As for satellite, there is normally a need for professional installation of the equipment, but that is also normally included in the price. DSL vs Broadband - PerformanceAs for performance, cable Internet has very high theoretical speeds, but those transfer rates are normally somewhat far from everyday use speeds, which are lower. That levels the field between DSL and cable. As for Satellite Internet, those speeds are very much below what you'll get with cable and DSL, but given that satellite coverage is available everywhere (and competes very much with dial-up Internet in rural areas), those speeds are bearable.
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