1.Abstract
Every technology junkies in United States nowadays would jump into the broadband wagon and face the same question: cable or DSL? Cable modem is easier to get than DSL and cable installation is much less complex than DSL’s. However, DSL provides a private line connection, unlike cable modem where users are connected to a network, which slows down the speed performance during peak hours. Both cable and DSL allow “always-on” connection that poses great security risks against hackers. Nevertheless, security risks can be minimized with various “protection” softwares. Those who have tasted the high-speed Internet access will never go back to the dial-up land, ever.
1.Quick Comparison between cable and DSL
Cable Modem Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
Comparatively quick installation
Available in most area served by cable TV
No distance limitation
Competitive cost ($40 - $50)
Cable provider is ISP
Share connection with other subscribers
Only one choice of bandwidth service
Downstream speed is higher than upstream
Vulnerable security More complicated to install
Limited availability
Strict distance limitation (Must be within 18,000 feet from telephone company’s central office (CO))
Competitive cost ($40 - $50)
Need 3rd party ISP (Office > ISP > CO)
Private connection
Variable bandwidth services (IDSL, ADSL, SDSL, VDSL)
Transfer speed based on DSL choice
Vulnerable security
1.Cable modem Advantages
Fast service: The cable broadband service is already available when DSL providers still wrestle with complexities of implementation. Hence, getting cable broadband service is generally ea ...