Websites are getting larger and larger, video websites are starting up all over the net, programs need to keep our computer safe from hackers and mp3 music downloads theses are the main reasons for broadband growing very popular. With dialup we are restricted to how much we can download has it would take too long, but with broadband running between 10-40 times faster now we can download to our hearts content!

However, there are a few alternatives available, so what are their strengths and weaknesses? We'll examine DSL and cable. Both are reasonable sources of higher bandwidth than dialup.

Initially, we should consider the hardware considerations. You would need a phone line to your computer to receive DSL. Additionally you'll need a DSL modem. You will also require an unused USB connection or Ethernet card, dependant on the modem type. The phone company must offer a DSL service in your local area.

With cable you will require a cable modem, an Ethernet card or USB connection free and a cable company providing internet service in your local area.

As for speed DSL speed ranges from between 128kbps and 3mbps, on average the cost will be higher for a faster & better connection. DSL is considered to be between 13-20 times faster than dialup, you should expect to pay around $30 per month for this service.

Cable internet can provide connection speeds of between 3mbps to 10mbps, cable is considered as 3-4 times faster than DSL, however the cost can range from $40-$50 per month.

Cable is considered more expensive than DSL. DSL must have a dedicated phone line, you don't want any interference with your phone or from other internet users in the area.

Cable is faster than DSL, cable covers more areas than DSL and distance doesn't affect connections.

DSL is slower than cable, isn't available in as many areas, and the connection speed is closely related to how close you are to a phone company central facility.

Cable as we stated is a little more expensive than DSL, the service can be adversely affected by the number of internet users online in your area at one time.

Finally consider this, if you are just reading plain emails, dialup will be all you require. However, if you download a lot of files and are constantly browsing large websites then DSL or cable would be a better option. If you live close to a phone companies headquarters who supply DSL internet, then DSL should be your choice and will be more cost affective.