From Socket Access- Spring 2008

Three business Internet options compared.

When choosing an Internet connection for your business, it is important to know the extent to which bandwidth will be shared with other customers and how download and upload speeds can be impacted.
 
With a cable Internet connection, bandwidth is shared among neighbors who use the same physical cables to connect to the provider. Therefore, connection speeds vary significantly depending on the bandwidth usage of other subscribers in the same geographical vicinity. If proper precautions are not taken, data could also be more susceptible to hacking over a cable connection.
 
With a DSL Internet connection, each user connects to the provider’s network separately, through a dedicated phone line. Once connected to the network, however, the amount of bandwidth available depends on the Internet activities of all users connected to the provider’s network. If a provider oversells bandwidth or does not add equipment when necessary, connection speeds could be negatively affected.
 
With a dedicated T1 Internet connection, each user is guaranteed a specific download and upload speed at all times. A portion of the provider’s network is allotted to that specific customer to guarantee consistent and reliable speeds.
 
The right connection for your business depends on several factors, including bandwidth needs, number of employees, location and budget. To analyze your business’s Internet needs, visit www.socket.net.