The higher the number, and thus the bandwidth or speed, the faster the data moves. This dialing is usually automatic, but it may take as much as a minute or two to establish the connection. Usual speeds now are 9.6Kbps to 28.8Kbps. Some older modems operate as low as 300 bps. Unfortunately, it is the only economical way to reach some sites in rural areas.
Speeds are usually the same as dial-up, but the connection is always there.
For long-distance circuits, other methods may be more cost effective, even when used at low speeds. This is the current work horse of data communications. A digital circuit between the two sites is leased from the telephone company. Higher speeds than the modem method are available, usually at higher costs. Usually offered at 56Kbps through 1.544 Mbps.