The Cable Access Alternative Cable Internet access is obtained through the same coaxial cable that delivers the television signal. Practically speaking, the top speed is 8 megabits per second with users most likely to experience speeds in the 400 kbps to 700 kbps range. But that's still more than 10 times faster than an analog telephone modem. When files are being uploaded from a computer, the top upstream speed is 768 kbps, with users typically seeing about half that speed, roughly 300 to 400 kbps. For more computers, the cost goes up accordingly.
Cable is a good value, if it's available.
However, most commercial buildings are not wired for it. Those who want the service but work in an unwired office must pay some or all of the installation costs. That can run anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. The Rush Of DSL Digital subscriber line technology, or DSL, enables high-speed data transmission over ordinary copper telephone lines. Depending upon the setup, the same phone line also may be used simultaneously for telephone calls or fax transmissions, eliminating the need for multiple lines.