DSL internet speeds can differ widely based on the provider and your location, typically ranging from 1 to 7 Mbps. This level of speed is adequate for casual users who primarily browse the internet, check social media, or send emails. However, it may not be sufficient for online gaming or streaming in larger households. Some DSL providers offer packages with speeds between 12 and 50 Mbps. The FCC defines "high-speed internet" as connections with speeds of 25 Mbps or higher. With 50 Mbps, you can stream HD content and play games with minimal lag or buffering.
DSL, or Digital Subscriber Line, offers internet connectivity through existing copper telephone lines, using digital signals. Unlike dial-up, which is slow, noisy, and blocks phone calls while you’re online, DSL allows for both internet access and phone calls at the same time. This is because only a small part of the line's bandwidth is used for voice, leaving enough for internet use.
DSL is significantly faster than dial-up and operates quietly, without the annoying sounds typical of older systems. Data is transmitted from your internet provider over the telephone lines to a modem in your home, which then connects to your devices.
Installing DSL internet is typically easy since it relies on existing telephone lines, eliminating the need for new wiring. You’ll need a router/modem, a line filter to separate internet and phone signals, and a DSL cable. Most providers offer a self-installation kit that includes all necessary equipment and instructions, allowing you to avoid professional fees. If you prefer not to handle it yourself, you can arrange for a technician to assist with the setup.
There are hundreds of DSL internet service providers nationwide, but those available to you will depend on where you live. We'll go over a few of the largest DSL providers in the country. The large provider is Frontier Communications. Depending on your area, Frontier offers internet plans with download speeds up to 25 Mbps. A few select areas may also have a 40 Mbps option. The states where Frontier is the most available include Connecticut, West Virginia, Oregon, and Washington. Its services are spread throughout 29 states.
Let's see how DSL compares to other types of internet so you can make an informed decision. We'll use a DSL vs. cable comparison. When it comes to speed, cable is going to beat DSL most of the time. Again, speed is always going to depend on your location and provider, but overall cable is faster. The fastest cable connections can reach download speeds up to 300 Mbps. This high-speed connection gives you enough broadband to stream your Netflix shows, download movies in HD, and play online games all at once. This is plenty of speed for large households. On the other hand, typical DSL download speeds range from 7 to 12 Mbps, with a few providers offering faster speeds in select areas. Additionally, most cable providers also offer faster upload speeds than DSL. However, with a cable connection, you have to share bandwidth with your neighbors because the internet is serviced through a nearby node. This means that during high internet traffic times, when there are a lot of people online at once, your connection is going to be slower. Because a DSL connection is wired straight to your house, you don't have to share bandwidth. Your speeds will stay consistent no matter how many of your neighbors are watching the latest Game of Thrones episode at once.
In terms of nationwide availability, DSL and cable are neck and neck. DSL reaches 90% of the population, while cable is available to 89%. Because both of these connections use pre-existing infrastructure to deliver internet, they are fairly easy to find except in some rural areas. When it comes to price, cable is more expensive than DSL. This is because cable typically comes with higher speeds and providers can offer internet bundles with cable TV thrown in. One last consideration is your location in relation to the internet provider. For DSL, you'll need to live a mile or two away from a central office for a fast connection. Cable does not have this distance limitation, so it will be a better option for those who live further from their provider. Type in your zip code at the top of the page to compare internet service providers in your area!
| Fiber | Cable | |
|---|---|---|
Download Speed Range | 5 Mbps to 8000 Mbps | 5 Mbps to 3000 Mbps |
Typical Price Range | $15 to $300 Per Month | $10 to $300 Per Month |
Nationwide Availability | 43% Coverage | 88% Coverage |
Typical Bandwidth | 15 GB to Unlimited | 1 GB to Unlimited |
