Residential DSL Internet Access - USA

What is DSL?

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology can be used to deliver bandwidth-intensive applications like high-speed access to the Internet, streaming audio/video, videoconferencing, online games, application programs, telephone calling and other high-bandwidth services. This digital broadband line directly connects your premises to the Internet, via the existing 2-wire copper telephone wiring currently within your home or office. DSL gives an "always-on" Internet connection and does not tie up the users phone line. No more busy signals, no more dropped connections, no more waiting for someone in the household to get off the phone. DSL is roughly 40x times faster than a standard 56Kbps dial-up modem.

(see a diagram and speed demo)

There are two main types of DSL service available. The first type is more for Residential use known as ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line), the other is Symmetric DSL (a.k.a. SDSL or Business DSL). ADSL or DSL uses a modem or router, which then attaches to your computer through your phone line. SDSL is connected basically the same way but transmits information at speeds from 1.5Mbps to 9Mbps downstream (to the subscriber) and from 16kbps to 800kbps upstream, depending on line distance and type of service.

DSL is a distance-sensitive service which means the closer you are located to the phone company's serving Central Office, the more speed is available to you, and the further you are away, the less speed. At certain distances, DSL service is not available at all.

» For other types of digital subscriber line definitions visit our glossary page

DSL Internet Service Providers:

Verizon Online DSL more info / sign up

AT&T Yahoo! DSL (SBC) more info / sign up

Qwest DSL more info / sign up

4-DSL more info / get a free quote

Shop4DSL more info / sign up

DSLcom more info / sign up

Verizon FiOS (Fiber Optic) Internetmore info / sign up