The term High-Speed Internet refers to any digital Internet access that enables the user to upload and download more data at a much higher speed than a traditional dial up connection. The terms "high-speed" and "broadband" are used interchangeably.


High-Speed Internet's Key Advantages

• Speed - You'll enjoy speeds up to 50 times faster than you're used to with your dial-up connection.
• Always connected - High-speed service is on whenever your computer is on. There's no need to dial in and no busy signals.
• No need for a second phone line - DSL allows a user to surf the Internet and talk on the phone simultaneously, so you'll never have to worry about tying up your phone line.

What does that mean for you? Web pages that load in a snap. Music, software, and video files that download almost instantly. And a fast Internet connection that won't tie up your phone line. This is the Web of the future!


Types of High Speed Internet

• DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connects a user to the Internet via regular phone lines. Typical DSL speed is 768 Kbps up to 7,100 Kbps, which at top speed is 100 times faster than standard dial up service. It usually does not require professional installation but it does require a local phone line and availability is limited to upgraded areas. Activation once took weeks, but now it typically takes a few days.
• ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) - Usually meant for home usage, this DSL service has a faster download speed and a slower upload speed. Download speeds may range from 256 Kbps to 7,000 Kbps.
• Cable Internet connects users to the Internet through digital (coaxial) cables, often sharing the same line that carries your local cable TV service. Typical Cable speeds range from 500 Kbps up to 2,000 Kbps, which at top speed is 30 times faster than standard dial up service. Cable Internet can sometimes require professional installation and the speeds are not always consistent. It is however widely available and very affordable. Many cable companies offer special rates if you sign up for cable Internet and have digital cable.
• Satellite Internet connects users to the Internet via satellite dish. The speeds typically run at 500 Kbps downstream, which is still considerably faster than dial up. Although it is relatively expensive and requires professional installation it does allow high-speed access to people in rural and semi rural areas that would otherwise only have dial up as an option. Current satellite Internet technology is two way, which means you can upload as fast a you download. You can also work with your selected provider to coordinate or upgrade your satellite TV and satellite Internet systems.