Please explain to me the pluses of using a T-1 vs DSL.
Please explain to me the pluses of using a T-1 vs DSL.
— Gregory LaPaugh.
A T-1 is considered more of a business-grade Internet connection – a connection that you would be able to comfortably handle hosting a Web server and/or a mail server for your company. A T-1 should give you the same speed up and down.
This type of connection will be more expensive than a DSL connection. Most carriers base the cost of the T-1 on your distance from the central office (CO) that is closest to your service location. This connection is known as the local loop. You will also need to arrange for an ISP to provide you Internet service. Some telcos also offer this service or can provide a bundle that will give you both. Depending on your ISP, you may need to purchase some type of router that will connect your network to the Internet connection being delivered to you. You will need some type of CSU/DSU to connect the T1 to the router. You have options here to use either an External or Internal version. When service is disrupted, you may find that restoration of service will usually occur sooner than what may be experienced with a DSL connection. As with anything, experiences with different LEC’s and the service people you work with can make a big difference.
There are several benefits of a DSL connection. The DSL connection is delivered in most cases over the same copper as your telephone connection. The DSL modem required for this service is typically provided by the Telco and gives you an Ethernet connection to plug into for obtain service. DSL will usually be significantly cheaper than a T-1. A disadvantage of DSL is that in most offerings, the download speed is going to be different. At a former company, I used DSL connections extensively for remote warehouse connections since the cost for installation and monthly charges were far less than what I could get with a T-1. The bandwidth needs of the warehouses were met sufficiently with the DSL connection. The downside is that when I lost service at a California location, it took more than two weeks to get service restored. While there are business grade DSL connections offered by most LECs, look at the SLA that may come with it to see how long before you can expect service to be restored when there is a problem, what is your responsibility vs the LEC’s, etc.
Another connection option that can be considered is cable-modem service by your local cable company. The downside here is that service to commercial areas is usually the last area to be turned up. That is dependent on what type of agreement the cable TV company made with the local government(s) to get the franchise.
When looking at any of these options, look at the cost of service, the speed(s) available, and the equipment that you need to purchase versus what the service provider will provide. Depending on which provider is looking to build up their business, you might be able to get installation charges waived and possibly some of the equipment needed of the connection provided at little or no charge. You will be asked to make a commitment of between 1 to 3 years in some cases. The longer you make the commitment the more you may find the provider willing to waive or lessen the initial startup charges and to a degree, the amount of the monthly charges.
