DSL is a type of broadband internet that uses traditional copper-based phone lines to provide reliable internet service. Brightspeed provides DSL internet service to communities across America, especially in rural areas where other types of internet connections might not be available. For more information, see our article “What is DSL?”
If you have a DSL connection, or you’re considering getting one, you might have heard that there’s more than one type of DSL and wonder which option is the best for you. Let’s take a look at the various types of DSL and the most important ways that they’re different from one another.
Asymmetric DSL (ADSL) is the most common type of DSL for home internet service. This technology’s name comes from the fact that its download speeds are significantly faster than its upload speeds. Most home internet users download much more data than they upload, making ADSL a reliable choice for users who need basic, cost-effective broadband service.
Most Brightspeed DSL plans use ADSL to deliver internet service. DSL plans that offers higher speeds may use ADSL2, a faster and newer technology that improves on ADSL, or they may use VDSL (see below). Check to see if Brightspeed DSL is available in your area.
Symmetric DSL is similar to ADSL, with one big difference: It offers equal speeds for uploads and downloads. Symmetric DSL is relatively uncommon today, but some businesses use it as a low-cost internet option that provides reliable upload speeds.
VDSL is a newer type of DSL that splits the DSL signal into multiple bands, allowing for higher bitrates and faster internet speeds. It can offer impressive performance, but requires the end user to be relatively physically close to the service node.
Some Brightspeed DSL plans use VDSL in areas where it’s available. For more information about our DSL plans, find out if Brightspeed DSL is available in your area.
This combination of technologies uses fiber to the node (FTTN) to provide high-speed fiber service to a service node near your home or business. VDSL2 provides the “last mile” connection between the node and your property. This allows ISPs to provide high-speed fiber services without the expensive process of creating a last mile fiber connection (called fiber to the home, or FTTH).
Questions about which types of DSL are available in your area? Reach out to Brightspeed and learn more about available options for DSL internet near you.
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