Article Advise

submitted: Aug 21st 2008 | by: JoplinDeMazzier | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 384 | |

Many people who recognize the need to have broadband access in their homes are becoming overwhelmed with the choices available today. They realize, however, that their lack of internet access or inadequate dial up is not enough, and that broadband is becoming the standard to connect to the Internet.

The main choices the typical consumer has are DSL, cable, and fiber optic broadband service. The three have different speeds and prices, and their level of access to you can depend on location. But, they all do offer a great boost over the connection speeds one would see with dial up service.

DSL, which is installed and supported by phone companies is the cheapest but slowest of the three. The technology is limited by your distance from the phone company?s office so it may not be available in your area. Service is typically $15 - $30 a month depending on speed. For the basic user who wants to occasionally browse the web, upload some pictures, and send some emails, this is the preferred way to go.

Cable, which is run by your local cable provider, is the middle tier of broadband connectivity. Prices range from $25 - $500 per month (higher prices for commercial/business services) but allow for increased bandwidth compared to DSL.

Unlike DSL, cable is not distance limited as long there is television service in your area. For the user who wants to watch/download videos online, play ?live? games, download/stream music, or has 2+ regularly used computers, cable modem would be it.

A new technology making waves in broadband is fiber optic service. Starting with Verizon's FiOS, fiber optics have become a great broadband option. However, limited fiber network installation nationally have resulted in this service being absent from many markets.

The price of fiber optic service can range from $30 to over $200 per month depending on the package. But, for those seeking the fastest speed, have a lot of computer users in the home, or run a website or other online business, fiber optics can be the way to go.

Before you make your decision, be sure to see all of your options by visiting your phone and cable company?s websites to see what they offer in your area. Don?t forget that if you bundle your Internet service with phone and/or TV, you will save even more money.

About the Author

If you liked this article be sure you check out additional information about internet service providers. If you are considering switching providers, it is very helpful to compare dsl and cable ISP's prior to signing an agreement.

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