Until a few years ago, you did not need to know which Internet connection was right for your business. Back then, a website was not necessary and even the power of the World Wide Web was unknown.

Since then, things have changed from dial-up connections and expensive T1 lines that required special installations. Today, businesses may choose digital subscriber lines (DSL) and cable connections that meet their Internet service requirements.

Here are more details about these two types of small business internet solutions.

Digital subscriber lines

This connection uses your phone lines to allow you to connect to the Internet. The computers are connected via special DSL modem for data transmission. The speed at which data is sent and received through the modem varies from kilobits per second to megabits.

Here are four benefits of DSL connections:

• Offers better speed than dial-up phone line connections
• Allows you to use Internet and phone line simultaneously
• You may avail of the service from your current phone line provider
• Choice of different connections at varying prices as per your speed requirements

Here are three disadvantages of DSL connectivity:

• Farther distance from central office of the small business Internet provider reduces speed
• Loss of connection if phone line is interrupted or damaged
• Lower speed when compared to cable

Cable Internet

The data transmission occurs over cable television lines via cable modems. The speed varies between few megabits per second to several megabits.

Here are four advantages of cable Internet:

• Speed is not affected based on the central office distance
• Faster speed when availed with Internet access packages
• High-speed connection allowing you to transmit data to remote cloud locations
• Bundle packages such as voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) and business television are available

Here are three disadvantages of such connections:

• Bandwidth is shared with other users, which may reduce the speed
• Loss of connection in case the cable line is damaged
• More expensive than DSL

When you want to choose between these two types of connections, you need to work with a reliable small business Internet provider. Examine the service plans in detail to ensure there are no hidden clauses that may cause inconvenience in the future.