David Abarca, Instructor Del Mar College Computer Corner Internet Access Dialup, DSL, or Cable

Computer Corner What is the Difference? Dial-up Service DSL Cable

Computer Corner Dial-up Service Uses any touch tone phone line. Connection speed is unreliable. May be subject to long distance charges. Large files may require multiple attempts.

Computer Corner DSL Service Digital Subscriber Line Advantages Use Internet and still access your phone line for voice calls. The speed is much higher than a regular modem. Uses the phone line you already have. Higher Security since each subscriber has a separate connection The company usually provides the modem. Disadvantages Connection works better the closer your are to the provider's central office. Connection is faster for receiving data than for sending data over the Internet. The service is not available everywhere.

Computer Corner Cable Modem Service Advantages Connection does not depend on distance the provider's central office. Download and Upload speeds can be much higher than DSL. Uses the same cable line for both TV and Internet. The company usually provides the modem. Disadvantages The service is shared between all the households in a neighborhood. Heavy use by others may slow down your connection speeds. Security can be an issue, but most companies address these issues.

Computer Corner For a copy of today’s presentation, please visit and follow the KIIITV link Please your questions to: David A. Abarca at