If you’re struggling with low internet speeds and glitchy connectivity, it’s time to choose something new. While there are quite a few different ways to get the internet at home, let’s take a look at what might work best for you.
While over 21 million people still currently use dial-up, most internet connections used across America today belong to the broadband or always-on variety.
Let’s explore the four different kinds of high-speed connections we see most commonly today
Direct Subscriber Line (DSL)
DSL is reliable, affordable, and delivered through your phone line. While DSL is just slightly slower than most cable internet, it’s enough to run streaming services, play games online, and conduct most other typical web-based activities. Plus, it’s widely available.
Cable Internet
Many cable providers also offer internet services through the same coaxial cables which deliver cable TV and possibly a home phone line. Speeds can vary depending on several factors but typically getting between 3 to 100+Mbps is fairly common. Easy to install and widely available, if you’re an existing customer, all it could take is a phone call or website visit to get it. Plus by bundling services, you might even save a bit. The downside – poor customer support and problem-solving.
Satellite Internet
While Satellite internet services are wireless, they can also be pricey. Instead of phone or cable lines, the internet is beamed directly to a small satellite attached to your house. Speeds can range from about 3 Mbps – 15 Mbps. Though you’ll still need to find a provider near you, this may be the best option in remote or distant places with only a few providers anywhere around.
Fios
The fastest of all of these kinds of internet connections, Fiber Optic Service uses advanced technology to send pulses of lights down thin strands of glass called fiber optic cables. With this kind of internet speeds of 300 Mbps downloads and 65 Mbps, uploads are both reliable and possible. While this is probably the best internet experience you can hope to get, fiber optic services are currently only available in a fraction of states across the country and tied to providers like Verizon, AT&T, Qwest, and Google Fiber.