Best DSL Internet Providers
Compare All DSL Internet Providers
A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a method of connecting to the internet through an existing telephone line. Faster and more reliable than dial-up, DSL has been the choice for most Americans ever since it gained traction in the late 1990's. Seeing as all that's needed is a telephone line, most households and businesses will have some form of DSL to choose from.
Who are the best DSL internet providers?
Frequently Asked Questions about DSL Internet
What Is DSL Internet?
DSL, which stands for digital subscriber line, which uses an existing copper telephone line as the medium for a high speed internet connection. Users simply connect to the internet through a phone wall jack and because your DSL and phone connection operate in different frequencies, you can use both at the same time. There are 2 types of DSL transmission: symmetrical and asymmetrical. Symmetrical DSL offers you the same upload and download speeds, whereas asymmetrical DSL gives you more download speeds than upload speeds. Considering that the majority of people download more than they upload, asymmetrical is a more popular transmission type.
Who Are The Top DSL Providers?
When looking at top DSL providers, it is important to take into account more than just speed. Data caps, customer support, contract terms, and installations can each make a huge impact on your overall experience with your provider.
Who Is The Largest DSL Provider?
The largest DSL provider is AT&T, based on the amount of customers and states that they service. AT&T has over 120 million customers in 21 different states.
How Fast Is DSL Internet?
Average download speeds for DSL range from 1.5 Mbps to 8 Mbps. The speed of your service can be affected by the length of your line from the residence to the central network. The farther way you are, the slower your speed will be.
How Much Does DSL Internet Cost?
The initial setup fee for DSL can run anywhere between $100-$150. On average, DSL customers pay between $50-$60 for service.
Why Should I Get DSL Internet?
DSL is fairly easy to set up through your existing telephone wires, and you have your own dedicated circuit which means you never have to share bandwidth with your neighbors. DSL is also a very affordable broadband option compared to most.
Using the same infrastructure as cable television, cable internet access has quickly grown in popularity among ISPs and consumers alike. Generally offering faster speeds than a DSL line, it's often the first choice when looking to use the internet for things such as streaming, gaming, or just visiting some of your favorite sites.
Pros
- Increased download speeds
- Widely available
Cons
- Shared bandwidth
- Reduced upload speeds
With the fastest speeds available through fiber, it's the perfect choice for the modern user. Through fiber internet, fiber-optic lines carry the signal back and forth from your home or business at near instantaneous speeds. It's one of the newest technologies on the market and demand is growing faster and faster.
Pros
- Lightning fast download speeds
- Highest upload speeds
Cons
- Higher cost
- Lower Availability
A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a method of connecting to the internet through an existing telephone line. Faster and more reliable than dial-up, DSL has been the choice for most Americans ever since it gained traction in the late 1990's. Seeing as all that's needed is a telephone line, most households and businesses will have some form of DSL to choose from.
Pros
- Available to most addresses
- Highly reliable connection
- Affordability
Cons
- Reduced upload speeds
- Slower than other lines
Really meant for homes or businesses without grounded lines available, satellite internet access can be found almost anywhere. Using a geostationary satellite to connect you with the wider world online, all that is needed is a clear line of site to the southern sky and you'll have no problem connecting to the web.
Pros
- Available almost anywhere
- Multiple plans available
Cons
- Lag when gaming
- VPN incompatible
- Data restrictions
Fixed wireless is a form of internet that uses directional radio antennas to connect to your home or business. Great for areas that don't have access to cable, DSL, or fiber, it allows you to have internet access without the often prohibitory price tag that getting those lines laid would cost.
Pros
- Fast download speeds
- No lines required
Cons
- Weather affected
- Antenna required