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DSL vs. Cable Fiber vs. Satellite Internet - Compare Internet Types

by Lisette McCrea (2021-12-21)


Do you have the right broadband internet connection? What does "broadband" really mean? Perhaps you've been asking these questions since you recently started or purchased an enterprise or thought that your office required some adjustments.

Broadband is a broad term that covers almost any kind of residential or business internet that's faster than the old and dusty dial-up connections. Broadband connections are usually "wireline," meaning that you connect to your high-speed Internet Service Provider (ISP), through a complex network of cables. Wireless broadband is also available, notably through satellite internet. Satellite internet broadcasts are transmitted from satellites orbiting the Earth.

You may be overwhelmed by the many options available for internet packages. It's hard to know what to select and which elements are most influential on your service. However, when it comes to selecting an ISP, the number-one factor that affects all the other aspects is the service type.

Every kind of service has its pros and pros, regardless of whether it is DSL or cable, fiber, satellite or DSL. DSL and cable internet are simple to find but might have low speed. Fiber internet however, is extremely fast but expensive and difficult to find. Satellite internet is typically slow, but it's not unheard of. The more you are aware of each kind of internet, the more confident you will be when making your final choice.

DSL internet

DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. This type of broadband connection is faster than dialup. There are two types: ADSL (symmetrical) or SDSL (symmetrical).

DSL connections do not tie up phone lines. You don't need to call an ISP to get DSL. It's always accessible. DSL speeds vary from several hundred to eight Mbps. This is enough speed to allow high volume data use, loads websites quickly, and is very effective for live chats, streaming videos in real-time, as well as playing online games.

Internet cable

A broadband internet connection via cable is faster than dial-up however it is sometimes slower than DSL. Internet connections are made using cable modem. This connection will be shared by lines that are utilized for cable TV. Data transmission requires space which is reserved for TV channels. Some are used for data transmission and others for downstream transmissions.

Satellite internet

Satellite Internet does not currently offer TV. Internet-wise, it's a slow and the most expensive option. For more information on satnet check out our own web site. Satellite dish placement requires an unobstructed line of sight towards the satellite. The dish should be in a position to be able to communicate with satellite through a completely uninterrupted view. This means that there are no structures or trees can be placed between the dish and satellite. If you live in an extremely rural region of the globe, for instance way out in the country, the satellite may be your only choice.

Final thoughts

We compiled this list to highlight the differences and similarities between each type of internet.

DSL internet is the ideal choice for rural users who would otherwise have to use satellite Internet. Cable is the ideal option for those who watch TV. They can also benefit from cable "bundle deals" which come with great discounts and promotions, compared to standalone services. Fiber internet is a good option for people who stream Netflix, play online games and download large files and stream videos occasionally.