DirecPC is 384 mbps or 400 mbps, so as limited DSL, although quite a bit cheaper per month and no firewall computer necessary. Even at 384 mbps, a big improvement over 28,000 baud, but not in the league of streaming video and audio, or rapid downloads. What does this mean. You need T-1 speeds, 1.5 mbps to quick downloads, video, graphics, and this is still too expensive for consumers and many businesses. DSL is limited by both gauge of wire and distance to switch station.
Cost is a major factor here.
For the internet to meet its hype, 1.5 MBPS speed is necessary. 56k is far from this. While an improvement, the congested highways and speed of the user are inhibiting its growth dramatically. Allows only authorized traffic. Is immune to penetration.