Sorting through all the different broadband service technologies can be tough. With so many competing options and broadband plans available, it can be difficult to separate the good from the bad. Here, we'll look at a popular technology called ADSL.

What is ADSL?

ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. Basically, it is a technology that allows data transmission on the unused portion of your already existing copper phone line. Voice transmission usually occurs within the frequency of 0 KHz - 4 KHz, but internet data uses the range from 26 kHz up to 1104 kHz. With the use of a splitter, you can use your telephone wire for voice transmission and data transmission at the same time, with no interference.

To use ADSL, you will typically need a modem to translate the incoming data into a form that your computer can understand. The best part about ADSL is that it is significantly faster than typical dial-up internet service. Even with the lowest-tier ADSL plans, you can expect to achieve download speeds of 256 kilobits per second.

Where is ADSL available?

The good news about ADSL is that it is widely available. If you are in an area where telephone service is available, then in all likelihood you will be able to use ADSL. You'll simply need the special equipment of a modem and a splitter to be able to take advantage of your phone line. Unfortunately, if you don't live in an area with telephone service, then it is unlikely that you'll be able to get ADSL.

Pros of ADSL

There are definitely some good points about ADSL. Here a few to keep in mind.

• Speed: If you upgrade to ADSL, you'll immediately notice a huge improvement in your Internet speed. Videos will load and play almost instantly without the need for a long buffer time, and you'll be able to download files and software much quicker.
• Convenience: ADSL will also provide you with a lot more convenience than a typical dial-up connection. Before, you might have become frustrated that your Internet connection always interfered with your phone line. You wouldn't be able to place or receive any calls whenever you were on the Internet. This detracted from both the quality of your Internet experience and your phone experience. This won't be an issue any longer with ADSL.
• No Dialing In: Even though you'll be using your phone line to connect to the Internet, you won't have to "dial in" any longer. No more annoying screeching sounds as your modem attempts to make a connection with a remote server. Your Internet connection will always be on. Anytime you need to use the Internet, you'll be able to sit down and start browsing instantly.
• Fixed Cost: One of the best aspects of ADSL is that you can chose the option of a fixed-cost service. Rather than counting your minutes or data, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your service will be a fixed monthly cost - no matter how much you use it.

Cons of ADSL

Although there are many great benefits of ADSL, it's important to keep in mind some of the drawbacks.

1. Signal Reliability: The biggest drawback of ADSL is that the quality of data transmission isn't consistent throughout the entire system. The closer you live to the service provider, the better your signal will be. If your home is far away from the signal's origin, you may experience a degradation of reliability.
2. Speed Reliability: This is largely due to the same problem as the service reliability. Although your maximum speed may be 256 kilobits per second, you're likely to never achieve this if your home is a significant distance from the service provider.

Why Choose ADSL?

Despite its shortcomings, ADSL can be a great choice for many people. If you are looking for a fixed-cost broadband plan - with superior speed and convenience when compared to dial-up - then you will be very happy with ADSL service.