Ask Juandice Internet Service Deals Expert Advice
"Confused over the different types of internet?"
Date: 05/27/2006
Subject: High Speed Internet Access Explained
Q:Hey Juandice, I'm confused over the different types of internet available today. Can you tell me the difference between Broadband, DSL, Cable and Dial-up? And, what does "Web Accelerator" mean? Thanks for your help. Signed: John from Ohio
A:John, Great question! You know not too long ago there was only one way to connect to the internet and that was through a dial-up connection. But now, with all the new technology, like DSL Internet Access and Broadband Internet Access I agree that it's hard to know what everything means, and which internet service provider is right for you. Most people first start out thinking about price - how much are you willing to spend monthly? Dial up is the cheapest around $10/month, followed by DSL $15/month, then things start getting pricey with cable and satellite connections. Along side price you will want to think about internet connection speeds. The maximum speed for dial up internet connections is generally quoted as 56k (relatively slow) while cable internet connections are generally quoted in the range of 1 mbps to 6 mbps or more. With more speed you can expect to pay a higher monthly fee. Satellite is expensive because of the equipment set up and the cost to keep a satellite in orbit.
See other questions answered for more information about Cable Internet Access and Satellite Internet Access.
— Juandice
