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:: HOME :: CREDIT CARDS :: LONG DISTANCE :: INTERNET SERVICE · Main Page · Search by State · Dial-Up Service · High-Speed Dial-Up · High-Speed DSL/Cable · ISPs for Business · Antivirus & Security · Satellite Broadband · T1 Service Providers · Tips & Advice - New! · Internet Service FAQ · ISP Glossary · Web Hosting · Info & Resources :: LOANS :: CELL PHONES :: INSURANCE :: ONLINE BANKING :: KNOWLEDGE :: MORE |
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Internet Access Tips and Advice Center Topic: DSL Internet Access See the subtopics menu for tips and advice about DSL Internet access. For additional information about Internet service providers, see the topic list directly below.
 DSL BasicsWhat is DSL? DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an instaneous broadband Internet connection that uses a telephone line to tranmit data. DSL creates a data delivery system through your existing phone line to give you high speed access to the Internet. Although it uses your phone line, it does not interfere with phone calls. To get DSL Internet service, you will need to use a DSL modem. Monthly charges for basic DSL service vary greatly by provider and area. DSL speed is at least five times faster than dial-up Internet access and can be relatively the same speed as cable Internet service. However, DSL speed can vary widely from location to location. Distance from the phone company's central location is a big factor. If you live more than three miles from the phone company's central office, you may have problems with slow sped, poor connectivity or DSL may not be available at all. Another benefit to DSL? It's always on. You never need to dial up to connect. ^ Back to top How DSL WorksHow does DSL work with my phone line? Here is how DSL works: Telephone lines consist of a pair of copper wires installed in your home by your telephone company. The copper wires have room for carrying much more than just voice conversations. DSL uses this extra room to carry data information on the telephone wire without interfering with your normal phone conversation. Therefore, you do not need have an additional phone line in order to use DSL Internet service. Nor will you have to limit your phone usage while you are connected to the Internet using DSL. Telephone use and DSL Internet activity can occur simultaneously with no problems. ^ Back to top Advantages of DSLWhat are the advantages of DSL? One of the major advantages of DSL Internet is that it offers instant connectivity and fast speed in comparison to dial-up Internet service. Like cable Internet service, DSL is always on. Therefore, you do not have to wait while it connects. Another advantage to DSL is that you can use your phone line for placing calls and still remain connected to the Internet. Though DSL service uses your existing telephone line, it does not interfere with it. DSL Internet can also be more cost effective than cable Internet service. In recent years, DSL companies have been able to offer lower rates which makes it only slightly more expensive than dial-up service, but oftentimes cheaper than cable Internet. Some DSL providers offer "lite" versions of DSL which are extremely affordable. Read this for more on the DSL vs. cable debate. ^ Back to top Disadvantages of DSLWhat are the disadvantages of DSL? The main disadvantage to DSL is that it is not available everywhere. Also, if you are not in relative proximity to the telephone company's central office, your connectivity and speed may be very poor. Before signing up with the service, the best way to determine if DSL is right for you is to talk to neighbors or other people in your area. If others nearby are happy with the service, cost and speed of their DSL, it is much more likely that you will be satisfied as well. You can always ask the DSL provider if they offer a free trial period or a money-back guarantee when starting out with their DSL service. ^ Back to top How to Reduce Costs of DSLHow can I reduce costs of DSL? There are several ways you can reduce the cost of your DSL service. Choose the Lite Version Many DSL Internet service providers now offer a more affordable "lite" version of DSL that may be slightly slower in speed. Look for Special Introductory Rates If you swich from another provider, many DSL companies will offer you a discounted introductory rate for the first three to 12 months of service. Find or Ask for a Free Trial If you are unsure about which ISP is right for you, ask for a free trial period or a money-back guarantee for the first 30 to 60 days. This will save you money and ensure you are happy with the service. Bundle Services Probably the best way to reduce the cost of your DSL is to package it with other services from the provider. For example, a company may offer a drastically reduced rate if you package your DSL service, telephone service, long distance service and/or cell phone service into one monthly rate. ^ Back to top Choosing Your DSL ProviderHow can I choose between different DSL providers? Beyond price, there are several important things to consider when choosing a DSL provider. Tech Support A good DSL ISP should provide free technical assistance. Try to avoid ISP's that charge for tech support by the call or by the hour. There may be major problems that could end costing you a bundle. Customer Service Hours If possible, choose a DSL Internet service provider that offers 24/7 customer service. Some providers only have live customer service and tech support during business hours. Established Service Choose a national service or at least a company that has been established in your area for quite some time. Ask your neighbors, co-workers and friends which DSL provider they use to assure you are selecting a reputable company. ^ Back to top Top DSL ProvidersWhat are the top DSL providers? Things you will need to establish DSL service:
When looking for a DSL provider, it may be better to choose a national carrier with an established reputation and known reliability. Here are some of the most popular DSL companies today.
^ Back to top Costs With DSL ServiceWhat are the costs of DSL? When signing up for DSL, you should be aware of the costs: Monthly Rates The basic cost of DSL service is in the form of a monthly rate. Monthly rates vary considerably depending on the DSL provider. However, you can normally expect to pay $20 or more per month for DSL Internet access. Be sure to ask if the company can offer a free trial period or a lower introductory rate for your first few months of service. Installation Some DSL companies send you any necessary equipment or software and provide easy instructions for installation. Other ISP's, however, may charge you for an installation technician to come to your home to set up your service. Take these things into account when choosing a DSL provider. Terms and Cancellation Fees Some DSL providers may want you to sign an annual contract. If you choose to do so, make sure you understand the ramifications of early cancellation. If at all possible, locate a DSL provider that offers month-to-month service with no long-term commitment. ^ Back to top Choosing DSLWho should choose DSL? Anyone who is looking for high speed Internet service can benefit from DSL. If you are tired of the slow connections of dial-up and are looking for affordable Internet access, DSL service is a good option. DSL is particularly great choice for those who:
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