By: Laura Backes
When it comes to selecting a high-speed internet provider there are many different options for customers to choose from depending on where you live. If your only options are DSL (digital subscriber line) or satellite you’re much better off choosing DSL. In order to be an informed consumer, let’s examine the advantages of DSL over satellite internet.
- Simple set up – DSL internet is delivered through the existing phone lines connected to your home. There’s no need to run more cable or set up any fancy equipment that would be required for a satellite connection. Your DSL technician will have you all set up within minutes.
- Less equipment – Satellite internet required a dish, cable and a sophisticated modem while all that’s required for DSL is a simple, inexpensive modem. As with anything else, the more equipment you have the more chances there are for something to go wrong.
- Reliable – DSL is by far the most reliable form of internet available for uninterrupted service. Satellite internet can be affected by atmospheric conditions and many other factors.
- Not affected by weather – The biggest problem with satellite internet is the weather. Storms will interrupt your service even if the thunderheads are miles away. DSL will work during bad weather as long as the electricity is still on.
- Dish placement – If your home is surrounded by tall trees or buildings, you may have a hard time finding a place where a satellite dish can receive signal. If you don’t have a clear view of the southern sky, satellite internet won’t work for you.
- Less expensive – DSL is much less expensive than satellite internet. Rates will vary depending on your local provider, but when you consider equipment costs and monthly rates, satellite will always cost you more.
- Faster speeds – Satellite providers may claim to have lightning fast speeds, but that is not necessarily the case. Many consumers who have switched to satellite with the promise of faster internet speeds have been sorely disappointed.
- Skype – There have been reports of Skype users having problems with satellite internet connections. The voice transmission can be garbled or intermittent with satellite while DSL is a much more reliable connection.
- Availability – DSL internet is widely available even in rural areas. If you have a phone line, you probably will have DSL available to your home or business.
- Satellite is last resort – Because of the expense and unreliability, satellite internet is usually the option of last resort when nothing else is available. If you live in a remote area you may be forced to use satellite, but few customers actually choose it over DSL.
Although satellite internet technology is still evolving, it hasn’t come close to replacing the reliability and affordability of good old DSL and probably never will. With DSL you have a choice of a variety of speeds and price ranges. Naked DSL, which is an internet alone connection without phone service, may also be an option. Depending on your location and specific internet needs, DSL is a much better choice than satellite internet.
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