Both digital subscriber line (DSL) and fiber-optic internet services offer high bandwidth and reliable speed, allowing you to stream movies and browse the internet. While these options are similar, if you are shopping for a new internet provider, you should understand the differences between these two technologies, as this allows you to choose one that supports your needs. Below is more information about both types to help you decide.

DSL Internet Service

This is one of the most common forms, and internet providers deliver it through copper telephone lines, which makes it extremely reliable. Information from a website is converted into packets of digital information and transmitted through wires to a modem in your home. These connections are capable of delivering upload speeds between 1 and 10 Megabits per second (Mbps), and download speeds of up to 35Mbps. This is usually enough bandwidth to browse the internet, check email, or stream your favorite TV shows. However, if you have several people in the house playing video games and watching movies at the same time, you may notice lag and buffering issues.

While not as fast as some other broadband options, DSL is superior to dial-up. It’s also more affordable than other technologies, as most homes already have a copper wire phone connection. This means telecommunications companies don't have to invest in new infrastructure, which helps control costs. 

Fiber-Optic Internet Service

Instead of copper wires, fiber-optic internet uses cables made from glass fibers that transmit information through light pulses. This makes it one of the fastest broadband technologies on the market, with speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps), although businesses can often achieve speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

Fiber-optic internet service is also mirrored, so upload and download speeds are usually similar. This means this connection is ideal if you want to stream games or share large files, as these applications require you to send and receive large amounts of data. If you have multiple people in your family using the internet at the same time, fiber-optic has the bandwidth to satisfy everyone's needs easily.

Since telecommunications companies have to cover the cost of new lines, fiber-optic tends to cost more than DSL. However, as internet providers invest in expanding their network, this service is becoming more widely available, which means the price will become lower as more users switch to it.

If you need a new internet provider, contact Volcano Communications Group in Pine Grove, CA. Since 1903, they have been keeping homes and businesses throughout the area connected. They offer a variety of high-speed internet options, including DSL and fiber-optic networks, and will help you choose the perfect package for your needs. Visit the website to learn more about their services, and follow them on Facebook for news and updates. Call 1 (209) 296-7502 to sign up today.