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If you want the fastest internet service available, itโs likely youโre considering satellite internet vs DSL.
Both are broadband Internet services that provide access to the Internet through your phone line.
Both use modems and routers to connect your computer to the providerโs network. So how do they compare? Hereโs what you need to know about these two options:
Table of Contents
What is satellite internet?
Satellite internet is an ISP service that delivers broadband Internet access over the air. Itโs a very common option for those living where itโs difficult to get DSL or Cable TV service.
Using satellite internet is the same as using DSL or Cable TV, but there are several things that vary including the price, equipment and speed.
Satellite Internet equipment
Today, thereโs only one way to receive satellite Internet, the dish must be mounted on your roof.
And if you live in an urban area with tall buildings, you probably want a system that works in more than one direction. To make installation easier, many satellites allow for connecting multiple dishes to achieve satellite broadband coverage.
Other equipment that you need to install Satellite internet includes:
- A satellite dish thatโs mounted on your roof. It receives the signal and sends it to a satellite modem via Ethernet cable.
- The satellite modem decodes the signal and sends it to a router or computer.
- A router or computer for you to use for surfing the net, listening to music or watching videos.
DSL Internet Overview
DSL, or (digital subscriber line), is a form of internet access that provides data transmission speeds over ordinary telephone lines. DSL is delivered by your local phone companyโฆ the same company that probably supplies your voice service.
DSL can be a less expensive alternative to Cable Internet and will usually run at faster speeds, depending on where you live. They are slower Fiber, but faster than most Cable connections.
Satellite internet pros and cons
Internet service through satellite providers comes through a dish that mounts on a roof, carport or other parts of your property. Servicing areas up to 60 miles from the main dish installation area is possible with this type of internet service.
Pros
- Its more available
- It May offer faster speeds in some places
Cons
- Subject to speed and latency issues, data caps,
- physical dish installed
- Higher equipment costs
- Early Termination Fees
DSL internet pros and cons
DSL provides cable-internet access to residences or businesses but is not independent of the telephone line between your location and a local phone company.
The main advantages of DSL internet service include the ability to download large files at a fast pace, with no drop in speed.
Pros
- Faster speeds
- Minimal equipment installation
- Limited-term agreement
Cons
- It can be slow if you are far from the access point
DSL Internet equipment
To get DSL, you need an installed DSL modem from the telephone or cable company.
Satellite Internet vs DSL: Speed
The biggest difference between satellite internet and DSL is the speed at which you can download, upload and browse.
The satellite connection works slower than DSL or cable. Still, it can handle basic browsing, emailing, and chat room use.
But downloading a file using satellite internet will take much longer than if you had DSL or cable.
Satellite Internet vs DSL: Price
The price of both services varies widely depending on your service provider and the package that they offer. Satellite internet is more expensive because of the equipment costs and installation process.
But DSL costs vary widely depending on your location and the distance from your house to the telephone companyโs switching office.
If youโre comparing satellite internet vs DSL, itโs important to research your options carefully, check out the providers in your area and determine which one offers the best service for the best price.
Satellite Internet vs DSL: Service providers
In most instances, DSL is not available all over the country and for that reason, you might have different Internet service providers from one location to the other.
There are some ISPs that only focus on Satellite Internet while others will concentrate on DSL internet.
This all depends on the place you live and which service provider is available in that area.
For example, AT&T and Verizon only offer DSL internet while Charter Communications and CenturyLink provide DSL and Satellite internet in select areas.
FAQs
What is satellite Internet?
In simple terms, satellite internet refers to using a dish that transmits the signal from the satellites to your computer.
DSL vs Satellite Internet: which is better?
DSL used to be the only form of high-speed internet available. Now there are Fiber and cable services that offer a lot faster speeds than DSL. How good any of these services are will depend solely on your location and several other factors.
What is DSL internet?
DSL, or digital subscriber line, is a type of internet service delivered through your phone line by your Internet provider.
Conclusion
Satellite Internet vs DSL โ which one is better? Both offer fast Internet access, they just do it in different ways. DSL uses your existing phone line while satellite Internet requires you to mount a dish on your roof.
It really depends on whatโs available in your area and what kind of service you want. If youโre looking for high-speed, consistently high speeds, then Fiber or cable is the way to go but this will cost more.
