DSL (digital subscriber line) technology is, indeed, the next big thing, but with several differences. First of all, it's available in a variety of speeds; choose the one that meets your needs now, knowing that you can upgrade later. While it's faster than ISDN, it's a lot less expensive. You pay a low, flat fee every month, based on your speed. DSL is always on, so you don't have to wait to get a connection. And DSL isn't likely to go away. It uses the existing copper phone lines that reach homes and offices across the country and around the world. Instead of introducing a new technology into the fray, it's a new, better way to use the technology that's already there.
How DSL Works
DSL is a modem technology that transforms ordinary phone lines into high-speed digital lines for ultra-fast Internet access. DSL modems use digital coding techniques to squeeze up to 99% more capacity out of a phone line without interfering with your regular phone services. A variation of today's DSL technology has been in use since the early nineties by phone companies and large corporations running T1 lines. Now, you can enjoy the same speed, always on, flat rate service experienced by large organizations for a fraction of the cost.
Here's how. At your home or office location, you have your PC (with an Ethernet NIC) connected to a DSL modem. That modem is wired to a DSL circuit, which the phone company installs at your location. Finally, that circuit is connected via phone lines to another DSL circuit, which resides at the central office of your phone company.
DSL isn't available everywhere, but it's already reaching most of the country's major metropolitan areas, with many more to come. Check for DSL Availability for an up-to-date look at our nationwide coverage.
The affordable, high-speed, always on Internet connection, DSL provides the super fast Internet access you want and the affordable price you need. With DSL you can get Internet access that's up to 10 times faster than ISDN and up to 50 times faster than a 28.8Kbps analog modem - all starting at a flat rate of just $69/month. DSL uses ordinary, reliable phone lines, so there's no complex installation. And it's an always-on connection - no more waiting around. If you're tired of outrageous Internet access fees and slow data transfers, you're ready for DSL. Combine DSL with our firewall protection* service (highly recommended) and you have the best Internet access available today. *Firewall not included with installation or DSL service