What is DSL Technology?
DSL is an acronym for Digital Subscriber Line - A general term for any local network loop that is digital in nature.  DSL is high-speed connectivity for small to medium sized businesses and telecommuters.  This new technology offers high-speed, dedicated connections over existing copper telephone lines. DSL comes in several flavors, including ADSL, IDSL and SDSL. 

IDSL - ISDN DSL service uses existing ISDN routers.  Distance is not a factor in determining availability of service, but connection speeds are limited to 144K. . SDSL - Symmetric DSL service.  Requires a DSL router.  Fast upload and download speeds as high as 1.1Mbps in both directions.  Available speeds are based on the distance to the local switch. . ADSL   - Asymmetric DSL service offers Full T1 download speeds ( 1.5Mbps ) and moderate upload speeds of 384K.  Requires a DSL router and location must be within 3 miles of local switch. .

What are the advantages of using DSL?
There are numerous advantages to using DSL service.  DSL helps to increase efficiency, reduce download time, and increase productivity.  The service can be also be used for fast Internet access, to host your own web server or to create a virtual private network.  Other benefits include:

Faster Access.  Speeds from 144K to 1.5Mbps. Up to 10 times faster than ISDN and 50 times faster than a 28.8K modem. Always on: Dedicated connection; no dial up process or waiting Secure: runs over a dedicated twisted pair copper line Fast uploads and downloads No per-minute charges Combined Monthly Fee for convenient billing Faster Access.  Speeds from 144K to 1.5Mbps. .

How much better is DSL over ISDN and cable?
DSL offers comparable speeds compared to other transmission mediums, but it does have distinct advantages.

Vs. ISDN - No per minute line charges.  DSL uses regular phone lines and you do not have to pay a separate bill to the phone company.  Speeds exceed ISDN in every case, ranging from 144K to 1.5Mbps compared to a maximum of 128K on ISDN. . Vs. Cable - Dedicated line provides better security than cable system.  Cable service can get bogged down depending on how many users are connected, whereas DSL will always provide you with the same high-speed connection.  DSL service is also more widely available than cable.

What are the requirements for DSL service?
The requirements depend on the type of service you are interested in.   ADSL and SDSL service requires a DSL router and the installation of a dedicated phone line as well as a network interface card for each computer.

IDSL - ISDN DSL can use existing ISDN lines and an ISDN router.  This can be a cost effective option if you already have an existing ISDN service.  Distance to local switch is not a factor but speeds are limited to 144K. . ADSL / SDSL - These services require a DSL router, as well as a dedicated phone line.  Available speed is based on the distance to the local switch as determined by the chart below.  95Net can determine how far you are from the switch based on your address and phone no. . Service Type Downstream / Upstream Up to 2.3 miles Up to 2.8 miles Up to 3.4 miles Beyond 3.4 miles IDSL 144K / 144K X X X X SDSL 192K / 192K X X X   SDSL 384K / 384K X X X   ADSL 1.5M / 384K X X     SDSL 768K / 768K X       SDSL 1.1M / 1.1M X

Are there per-minute charges for using DSL?
Unlike ISDN, there are no per-minute charges for the use of DSL services.   DSL uses the same twisted-pair copper phone lines that are now in use.

What is involved with the setup and what are the setup fees?
95Net will handle the circuit ordering and installation for you.  The one-time setup fee of $325 covers installation of phone line and setup of DSL router by a qualified technician.  Inside wiring is optionally available for $88.  Setup fees do not include DSL router which may be purchased separately through 95Net or by the customer.  DSL router prices vary from $400 to $600.

How much are the monthly fees?
The monthly fees can be found on our DSL Services page.