If you think you'd use and enjoy high-speed Internet access enough to justify the cost, the next step is to decide which technology is right for you. DSL DSL uses traditional copper phone lines to transmit data. It replaces analog call-switching equipment in the phone lines with digital switchers, so information can be transmitted faster. Sprint began offering residential DSL here in February. Local companies such as NetTally and national companies such as Telocity offer it, too.
Some companies charge an activation fee, others charge no fee or waive it during sales or specials.
To receive DSL, you must live within 18,000 feet, or about three miles, of the company's nearest central office. Sprint spokesman Jason Duff said the company is exploring ways to expand the geographic reach of its DSL service. Sprint, citing competition, would not say how many residential DSL customers it has in Tallahassee. Cable Cable modems let you receive high-speed Internet over the same cable lines that transmit TV signals. Comcast began offering them for residential use in February.