Cable Internet vs. DSL Internet

There are different types of Internet Service Providers

Internet Service Providers, or ISPs, are the organization that connects commercial or private locations to the internet. There are several different type of internet connections, but the two most popular are DSL and Cable. 

DSL Internet (Digital Subscriber Line)

DSL internet uses a modem connected to a phone line in order to transfer data. 

Advantages

• Can use phone and internet at the same time
• Faster than dial-up
• Often costs less than cable internet

Disadvantages

• Download speeds are faster than upload
• Performance is related to how far you are from provider
• Sometimes not available in lesser populated areas
• Often slower than cable internet

Major DSL Providers in Western Pennsylvania

• Verizon
• AT&T

Cable Internet

Cable internet uses a modem connected to a cable TV line in order to transfer data.

Advantages

• Performance is not related to how far you are from your provider
• Often much faster speeds than DSL internet

Disadvantages

• You share available bandwidth with others using cable internet in your area
• Often more costly than DSL internet
• Sometimes not available in lesser populated areas

Major Cable Providers in Western Pennsylvania

• Time Warner 
• Comcast
• COX

Looking for Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in your area?

There are several websites that allow  you to search for internet service providers in your area by address or zip code, such as this one. 

Thanks for reading,

Amanda