These days, there are many different kinds of broadband service to choose from over a variety of methods of delivery, whether it's over some sort of physical line or over wireless services. Of these, DSL broadband is actually one of the oldest methods of delivering fast Internet service, invented in 1988, though it didn't really become accessible for home customers until the late 1990s. Though it has competing services, DSL broadband is still a solid choice for those shopping around for Internet service.

How It Works

DSL broadband works by passing additional current through existing phone lines, sending digital data at higher frequencies than the voice data that goes through. In this way phone companies are able to provide fast Internet service as well as phone service, all while still allowing you to use the telephone even when connected to the Internet. However, there are limits on this service, due to the limits of technology as well as of physics. Because the longer data travels over a line, the more likely that data will show errors, DSL can only operate at maximum speed while close to a phone company's switch.

Because of this, cable Internet service has become more popular than DSL broadband in areas where customers live far from their phone switch. DSL broadband is also similar to cable Internet service in that the amount of bandwidth is shared by all users on a switch; DSL users pay for a fraction of that bandwidth to be sent to them. But this also means that like with cable Internet, DSL broadband users may see lower speeds at peak times.

The Cost Of DSL

As mentioned, DSL broadband was initially too expensive to be accessible to the average consumer, simply because phone switch technology had not developed to the point where it was viable to purchase. However, that changed in the late 1990s, with DSL prices getting cheaper with the change in technology. Even now, with the improvement of DSL technology, consumers can buy higher bandwidth for less cost than they used to be able to.

Compared to other services, DSL broadband is economical, and offers a wide range of prices and speeds for people of differing needs. Even today, DSL broadband technology is evolving and seeking to match or beat the speeds offered by cable services. If you're looking for an inexpensive Internet service to get your first taste of broadband, or looking for a high-bandwidth service, DSL broadband has something to offer to you.