Toronto Internet Providers Discuss the Difference, and Which Is Better for Your Needs

There’s no doubt that we live in a digital age. Our daily comings and goings online have nestled nicely into the hands of the World Wide Web, making us dependant on computers and the internet. Having the best and fastest internet connection has become more important than ever. Due to this modern lifestyle, choosing an internet provider can no longer be a snap decision. It requires time and research. Although there are many great internet providers in Toronto, there is an important question to ask yourself beforehand. Should you choose DSL or cable internet?

For most people, the two choices seem almost identical. So what does it matter? Either way, you have internet, right? Wrong—the answer is that it does matter, and here’s why:

Cable Internet

The main difference between cable and DSL internet is how information is delivered and received. Cable internet uses shared television cable lines to transmit and receive data, which then attaches to the main source. This makes cable internet a little more common in households, and allows the recipient to be out of range without losing speed.

Because it is more commonly used, there is a misconception that cable internet is ultimately faster and more reliable. This is not necessarily true. Cable internet relies on one cable line per area, so the more people that are using it, the slower your connection will be. Shared connections get stronger with fewer users. So if you are the only one using it, cable internet is readily available. However, at peak periods (i.e. weeknight prime time), the service can become incredibly congested.

DSL Internet

DSL internet, on the other hand, uses telephone lines. If you do not have a home phone line, DSL Internet can be achieved by using an external modem that connects to surrounding telephone cables.

By using multiple lines instead of shared ones, you rely on your proximity to the provider and don’t have to worry about your connection slowing down due to high-volume usage. No matter how many people are using it, you still get consistent, stable speeds.

Another great feature of DSL internet providers is they typically offer unlimited internet usage. Many Torontonians are already enjoying the cost-effective and cap-free internet DSL offers.

One downside to DSL internet is that not everyone qualifies for certain providers’ services. DSL internet relies on your proximity to the internet provider, and if you are out of range their services DSL cannot reach you. But that does not mean DSL is not a viable option for you—typically this only affects people living in remote areas.

Both options have their pros and cons. don’t let yourself get sucked into familiarity over quality. Cable internet may be more common, but that does not automatically make it better suited to you and your internet needs. DSL internet providers in Toronto offer a great alternative that gives you fast, consistent service.