What is DSL?

DSL is an affordable and reliable internet service technology that uses standard phone lines. While it’s an older technology, DSL is often the best option for people who need internet service in remote areas, or who need basic, affordable internet. Here’s what you need to know about DSL.

The Basic Definition of DSL

A digital subscriber line (DSL) is an internet connection that carries data traffic over standard copper phone lines. These cables were originally used to carry landline phone service, which uses only a small fraction of the cable’s transmission capacity. A DSL connection operates at a different frequency than a landline phone, which allows it to transmit carrier waves over the phone line’s unused spectrum.

DSL became one of the first broadband internet technologies to gain popularity in the late 90s and early 2000s. It’s still in use today because it’s a convenient, reliable, and cost-effective technology that provides internet service to millions of people across America, especially in rural areas where fiber may not be available.

Terms to Know

ADSL

Most DSL connections in North America, including those offered by Brightspeed, are the type known as Asymmetric DSL (ADSL), which gets its name because its download speed is higher than its upload speed. Other types of DSL connections, like symmetric DSL and very high bitrate DSL, can provide higher speeds, but they’re less common and require additional equipment.

Many users download much more data than they upload, so for some people, this won’t matter. However, people who need a consistently high upload speed, such as people who work from home or take online classes, might find that other options suit their needs better.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth refers to the simultaneous traffic a DSL connection can hold at once. It’s most important when multiple users are attempting to use a connection simultaneously, like when someone’s trying to stream a movie in one room of your home and someone else is playing online games in another. Brightspeed offers bandwidth between 0-100MBPS depending on your location, check availability today!

Modem

A modem is the device that connects your home to your ISP’s network. For a DSL connection, you’ll need a DSL modem rather than a standard cable internet modem. We strongly recommend that Brightspeed DSL customers lease or purchase a modem from Brightspeed or use their own modem from the recommended list.

DSL Filter

These devices are installed between your modem and phone jack to help ensure that your DSL connection doesn’t interfere with your landline phone service. Brightspeed will install DSL filters as part of your DSL service package.

Advantages of DSL

Reliable Connection: DSL is a tried and tested technology that delivers a reliable internet connection.
Wide Availability: DSL is one of the most widespread internet technologies. Since it only requires existing phone infrastructure in most cases, DSL is often available in areas without access to other kinds of broadband internet.
Affordable Pricing: DSL is one of the most affordable internet technologies on the market, so it can be a great choice if you’re interested in saving money on internet service.

Limitations of DSL

Speed: DSL connections are typically not as fast as newer internet technologies like cable and fiber. However, DSL still offers plenty of speed for basic browsing, social media, and streaming at lower bitrates.
Weather Sensitivity: Overall, DSL provides more resilient performance in tough weather conditions than other rural internet options like satellite service.

DSL vs. Cable Internet

If you have your choice of DSL vs. cable internet, which should you pick? It’s all about assessing what you need from your internet connection.

Users who do a lot of gaming, HD streaming, or remote work may want to choose cable. However, if you need high-performance internet, it’s increasingly likely that you might have an even better option available in your area: fiber-optic internet. Learn more about fiber here. On the other hand, DSL can be a great choice for affordable basic internet that’s available almost everywhere.

Get Brightspeed DSL Internet

Brightspeed DSL is an affordable and convenient way to get connected. Check out our internet plan options and find out if Brightspeed is available in your area.

Already a Brightspeed DSL customer? Get in touch with our customer service experts or get answers to your questions.