When you are looking at the difference between cable internet and DSL for your business telecommunication needs, there are several pros and cons that you should consider.  In the world of business, there are options available such as using a business-class dedicated bandwidth as opposed to using cable or DSL; however the cost will be much greater.

Cable internet service is typically delivered through the same lines that are used to provide cable television.  The service will be cheaper when it is bundled with other types of services as well.  The drawbacks with cable internet service include slower service if there are many people who are trying to access the service simultaneously.  In a business setting, having to have cable TV service to have access to cable internet service as well may be considered to be problematic. 

DSL, which stands for digital subscriber line, can be delivered over a standard phone line.  However, the drawbacks include having to be within a certain distance of the central phone hub to get good service, meaning that it is not available in all locations.  In addition, DSL service is typically not affected by the number of people who are using the service at one time.

In terms of raw speed and theory, it would appear that the cable internet’s speed is the fastest option with the highest bandwidth, however, in reality it is not always quite true.  Upload and download speeds can be affected by the number of people who are using the service, depending on which is used and the bandwidth available.  Without considering the other people who are using the service, cable internet gives 30 mbps of bandwidth while DSL gives 10.  However, the more traffic that is on the service at the same time, the slower the internet’s speed will ultimately be.

 Shared bandwidth is typically the cheaper option, however it is not always the most reliable, especially when there are many people using the service at the same time.  Trying to upload or download files during peak times can be problematic at best.

 A T1 line is a high capacity digital phone line with higher capacity and higher speed, giving the ability to handle up to 24 voice or data channels at one time. 

Regardless of which type you settle on, understand that the providers may impose a cap on the amount of bandwidth that is available for each client.  In addition, the internet providers may charge higher or lower rates for greater or lesser bandwidth levels as well.

The decision of which service is right for you will depend on your internet and telecommunications needs and should be decided by your IT or managed services provider.  Pricing should not be the only consideration that is weighed during this decision.  You must make sure that you have the right speed for your needs so that you can effectively upload or download files for your business without slowing down because of internet congestion.  The right service will vary from company to company and with each location.

For Questions about these services or to speak to a Managed Service Provider directly.  Please contact Robb Chiarini at RobbC@citycommunications.net