Broadband Methods

There are several broadband methods that can be used to provide high speed internet access at home. The selection of the method is determined by the requirements, the availability of the hardware which is determined by the location of the user and the installation cost. Some of the most common methods include digital subscribers line (DSL), cable internet and satellite internet among others (Lemke, 2001). Due to its availability and speed relative to other options, I would prefer satellite internet for home use. Digital subscriber line is the most common home internet access method and provides network over the telephone lines.The main advantages of DSL that the subscriber is always connected, the hardware can have multiple uses (it is used as a phone and as an internet access devise at the same time), it provides a wide range of prices depending on the speed and a wide range of service providers. However, its use is limited by varying speed, availability, download limits and the spe cial equipments that must be installed by the telecom company. Cable internet on the other hand uses other coaxial cables other than telephone cables such as the television conduits. This broadband method has the basic advantage of being inexpensive and higher availability.On the other hand, it has the disadvantage of congestion and security problems associated with sharing of the network. Moreover, it is more suitable for multiple computers in home use (Steve Internet Guide, 2010). Satellite internet consists of a mini satellite disc mounted by a service provider. It has the advantage of always being connected and high speed. It is however more expensive compared to other options (Gustafson, 2005). Reference Gustafson, C. J. (2005). Disgusted With Dialup? – Compare DSL Providers, Cable and Satellite Internet to See If One Is Right for you, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from:http://www. buzzle. com/editorials/1-27-2006-87484. asp. Lemke, T. (2001). Cable, DSL or satellite? High-s peed internet connections can download information 50 times faster than a standard 56-kilobyte modem. But technology hasn't caught up with demand, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from: http://findarticles. com/p/articles/mi_m1571/is_47_17/ai_80900393/? tag=content;col1#comments Steve Internet Guide (2010). Broadband Internet Connection Methods, retrieved on July 9, 2010 from: http://www. steves-internet-guide. com/Broadband-Internet-Connections. php