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.
For many consumers, the three main broadband options are DSL, cable, and fiber optic. Each of these offers a great boost in speed over the typical dial up connection, but their differences can affect what kind of service and internet experience you might have.
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 broadband is an option run by your local cable television service and provides a middle tier of broadband options. The price is higher than DSL, ranging from $25 to over $500 per month for business access, but offers a faster speed than most DSL packages.
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.
Fiber Optic technology, which has been primarily introduced by Verizon?s FIOS, is the high end of connectivity. Since Fiber Optic cables (a cable with a small piece of glass that reflects beams of light) are required, this is not available in most areas.
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.
As with all purchases you make, check all of the local providers’ websites or contact them directly and see what packages are available in your area. Be aware, too, that bundling your services like television and telephone along with the broadband connection through one company can save you more in the long run.