Many clients want to know which is the better internet access technology, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) or Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN). The answer is two-fold.

First, in terms of speed, DSL is the better choice.  ISDN generally comes in two flavors, 64 Kbps and 128 Kbps. DSL is a scalable technology, with speeds ranging from 128Kbps to 1.5 Mbps. Many companies offer a variety of DSL bandwidth packages.

Second, ISDN can be more expensive than DSL. DSL utilizes the standard copper wiring already installed into businesses and homes, requiring no special line installation for service.  ISDN utilizes copper wiring as well, but a special ISDN line must be installed at the customer’s location. Then ISDN connection charges vary, depending upon whether or not the customer requires a dedicated, “always on” connection. Dedicated connections can get pricey as many ISDN packages are billed at a per-minute cost. Special “dial-up ISDN” packages are available in most areas at a much lower cost and can be a reasonable alternative in areas where DSL is not yet available.  Usually, two monthly charges are incurred with ISDN, one to the phone company for the ISDN service, and another to the customer’s Internet Service Provider (ISP). 

Early in its inception, many DSL customers had problems with “cross-talk”, or interference between the new lines carrying the DSL service and existing T-1 lines. An update in equipment has alleviated the problem in most service areas. And DSL still suffers from a distance limitation. In order to receive Asynchronous DSL (ADSL) service, a customer’s location must be within 18,000 feet (3 miles) of a central office (CO) of their local telephone service provider.  This limitation fairly ensures that rural areas will not be able to subscribe to DSL at this time. Again, future hardware improvements will make this less of an issue.

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t forget, we’re here to help. Call today for pricing and availability of fast Internet connections in your area.