T1 vs. DSL and Cable

Let the Battle Begin

In the highly competitive world of broadband Internet, there are three primary connectivity options for small businesses: T-1, DSL and Cable.  For having such different ways of connecting to the Internet, why are they compared so often?  They are all high-speed and reliable, so why is there such heated debate over which one is better?

As we attempt to answer these mind-boggling questions and more, we will compare the three on the basis of: speed, reliability, total costs incurred, security and support.

Connection Speed

• DSL- DSL connection speeds are sometimes comparable with cable speeds (3 to 6 Mbps usually), however because they are distance sensitive, the farther you live from your service provider's central office, the slower your connection will be.  Also, upload speeds are typically less than 1mb.
• Cable- cable modem speeds are generally much faster than either T-1 or cable, ranging from 6mb to 100mb.  But like DSL, there are many factors, including general Web traffic that can add to slower speeds, not just the amount of users online. Upload speeds are generally 1mb or less, but can be as high as 10mb. 
• T-1 – Set symmetrical speed of 1.5mb up and down.  You are able to bond multiple T-1’s together, increasing speeds in increments of 1.5, 3, 4.5, ect…

Reliability and Availability

T-1, cable and DSL connections pass the reliability test.  In general, the connections have good performance and are reliable.

• DSL- In general, DSL is up and working and normally a strong SLA is available. Performance issues have more to do with the amount of users and degradation of the line during busy times, than actual down time.  It is not available in all areas, but is usually available in urban areas.
• Cable- Cable Broadband access is the least reliable of the three connections.  This is due to both the technology deployed to enable cable internet, as well as known support issues with cable providers. Cable Internet is available to anyone who can receive cable television, but in general is not as readily available as DSL.
• T-1 – By far the most reliable connectivity of the three.   T-1’s come with strong SLA’s from the carriers that require 99.99 percent up time.  T-1 is also the most available connectivity of the three, available in 95% of the United States. 

The Cost of Your Connection

• DSL- DSL is a little more expensive than cable.  This is primarily due to needing an analog line for the DSL to ride on.  Although self-installation is becoming easier and more cost-efficient, it is still priced a little higher.  Also, monthly service fees are slightly higher than cable on average.  There are many DSL internet service providers to choose from.
• Cable- cable wins when it comes to the price.  While pricing is comparable to DSL (especially on the low end), based on installation and monthly service fees cable is usually a better bet if price is an issue. 
• T-1 – the costliest of technologies when comparing all three.  The higher cost is due to the technology and how carriers bring the service into a business, along with reliability and SLA’s associated with the service.

Security

With any of these connections, you are “always-on,” meaning your connection never shuts off even when you aren’t using the computer.  Therefore, the connections are susceptible to viruses and other evils that lurk in the depths of the Internet.  For this reason, having a managed firewall is essential for the safety of your business’ network. 

Support

• DSL- Some DSL providers don’t have the best reputation for customer service, but they do have ample knowledge.
• Cable- Cable Internet service providers are typically rated in the lowest scale when it comes to their support.  Their business model was built on servicing the residential community, and it shows in their lack of SLA’s and quick response times.   While cable companies are improving in this area, they do have a long way to go.
• T-1 – rating the support of T-1 as a technology would put it at the highest level.  However, the T-1 providing carrier must be taken into consideration.  Do your due diligence in examining the SLA’s and references to choose which T-1 provider makes the most sense for your business. 

T-1, DSL or Cable, Which One is Right for You?

Whether this debate will ever be resolved is questionable.  We can tell you that by studying this criteria and knowing the facts, one of these technologies should work for your organization.    Whatever you choose, be sure your provider is reliable and offers tech support should the need arise.