Why is Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) So Popular?

What is DSL?

DSL stands for digital subscriber line, and it's a type of high-speed Internet connection that allows you to connect using a local telephone network. ADSL, or asymmetric digital subscriber line, is the most popular type of high-speed Internet connection available in the market today.

To distinguish DSL from other connections, a definition of speeds can help. A DSL connection usually gives you data transfer speeds of up to 24,000 kilobits per second. The speed of your connection is determined by the type of DSL technology you have, the conditions of the line you're using, and you provider's service level.

How Does DSL Work?

DSL takes your phone line and splits it into two. All data to and from your ISP will be using the line with high frequencies, while the other line with the lower frequencies will be used for your phone. This allows you to connect to the Internet and use your phone line at the same time, because the two lines can work separately and independently.

DSL - A Backgrounder

Digital subscriber line technology is based on Claude Shannon's theory of digital communication. This theory is where most of digital-based technologies are derived. Shannon outlined the basic factors of digital communication, which are:

  1. A message-producing information source.
  2. A transmitter that creates a signal to send the message.
  3. A channel through which the message will be transmitted.
  4. A receiver that converts the transmitter's signal to form the message again.
  5. A destination that will use the message for something.

From that, most of our digital technologies were formed. Even though DSL has only been marketed in the early 2000s, its development was done as early as 1988 by Joe Lechleider. He just took analog voice signals and placed wideband digital signals over them. The analog voice signals passed through lines from telephone companies. From there, ADSL was born.

The Advantages of Using DSL

Compared to cable connections, DSL gives you the ease of independence. With cable Internet, your cable TV, Internet connection, and your Internet will all be out should there be a problem with your provider. With DSL, you don't have to worry about that. If there's a problem with your Internet connection, you can still use your phone line.

DSL connections can be configured in such a way that you can be kept separate from other networks. This means added security for you and your computer.

And of course, DSL's main strong point is its speed. It's one of the fastest connections available to everyone today.

The Disadvantages of Using DSL

Just as there are advantages, there are also disadvantages to using digital subscriber line connection. For one thing, DSL modems are still dependent on the service provider. Most providers require that you use their modem in order to avail of their DSL service. This makes it quite costly and inconvenient if you want to change ISPs, but equipment standardization will be a reality soon enough.

Another point against DSL connection is that it's affected highly by distance. The reason why it's not readily available in all places is that users have to be close to the server or the network to be able to enjoy speedy connection. This brings about limited availability, especially to low-populated areas.

 

These are some of the information you need to know if you're thinking of finally upgrading from dial-up to DSL. It always helps to know a little bit more about services that you're thinking of acquiring. If you don't mind the disadvantages that come with having a DSL connection, then go ahead and get connected!