Cheap Broadband Access
I think it is a given that if you are searching for cheap broadband access that you are looking for low price options. This is understandable. But, don't let your actual speeds suffer from cheap quality of service.
Especially with the case of DSL, service providers offer different plans with different speed options. Depending upon your needs and how much time you spend on the internet on a daily basis, you need to decide if the higher speeds are really worth the extra money you must pay for them.
Broadband is available to the residental public in the form of:
- Copper phone lines (DSL)
- Fiber optic cable
- Co-Axial Cable (the same as your cable TV)
- Cellular, or wireless (via a smart phone or USB data connect from a cellular/mobile provider)
- Wi-Fi (either a public or private network)
- Satellite
Before making your final decision, I recommend you consider and compare the following:
- Price
- Is a one or two year service contract required?
- Connection speed (download and upload)
- Quality of service and support
- Other expenses which may be involved such as equipment required.
Compare Broadband Services
| Service Type |
Typical Download Speed |
Monthly Cost Range |
Equipment Needed |
| DSL Broadband |
Up to 7.1Mbps |
$19.95 - $100.00 |
DSL modem |
Cable Broadband
(cable tv company) |
Up to 20 Mbps |
Typically $45+/month |
Cable modem |
| Satellite Broadband |
Up to 6 Mbps |
$40+month |
Satellite Dish and modem |
| Cellular/Mobile Broadband |
Up to 1.7 Mbps |
$40+/month |
Data card/USB Modem |
| Wi-Fi Broadband |
up to 26-34 Mbps typically |
Many free areas |
Wi-fi/data card/USB mode |
| Fiber Optic Cable Broadband |
10 - 150+ Mbps |
$49.99+ |
Wireless router |
|
