Should You Get ADSL or Cable Broadband Internet?
Introduction
Internet services in the UK have vastly improved over recent years. Old dial-up connection is now rarely used and broadband with its high speed
and always-on connection is more popular. The two main technologies are ADSL and Cable broadband and they both function in different ways. ADSL is a broadband service delivered via a phone line which unlike dial-up services, does not prevent you from making or receiving calls whilst connected. Cable is a service that uses the existing Cable TV network and does not require a phone line.
Download/Upload Speed
 Maximum speed is much higher using a Cable service than ADSL. ADSL typically offers download speeds of around 1.4Mbps and upload speeds of around 400Kbps, while Cable offers up to 3.0Mbps and 600Kbps respectively. However, speed can be significantly reduced when the network is experiencing peak demand. The average download speed that you should expect depends on what exactly you are paying for, but below 1.5Mbps is not uncommon. On the other hand, ADSL connection speed is not affected by the number of network users and provides a more consistent service. The cable network is a shared network, so it is less secure and more susceptible to intrusion or information leakage, purely by virtue of the fact that it is shared between many subscribers.
ADSL and Cable Service Area
 A potential drawback of ADSL is its dependence on your distance from a local phone exchange. Unlike cable, which performs the same throughout the country, ADSL requires you to live within a radius of 5km as a maximum distance to receive the service. The speed you get will then depend on just how close you are to the exchange, meaning you may have a
more reliable and faster ADSL service if you are only just within the ADSL maximum radius. There are no hard and fast rules regarding ADSL speed and distance from a suitably equipped exchange.
It depends on the condition of the telephone line between the exchange and your location.
But typically, if you double the distance to 10km or so, you can expect the speed to reduce by 50% or even 75%.
5 Things to Consider
SPEED AND BANDWIDTH CAP
It is important to consider speed, if you are a light Internet user you should look for a provider with a lower bandwidth cap as this may give you a cheaper rate. If you just require Internet access for email and basic surfing, a broadband package with a download speed of 2Mbps or so and a 1GB monthly bandwidth cap may suffice.
For intensive use such as music or video streaming and online multiplayer gaming, 20Mbps or 24Mbps download speeds and perhaps unlimited usage may be more appropriate.
SERVICE AREA
When choosing an ADSL provider first check what options are available to you. To see if there is ADSL available in your area you can access online phone number and postcode checkers on the websites of individual providers, or comparison sites. To receive cable broadband you also must live in an area served by cable, this is more limited than ADSL providers.
COST
In terms of costs ADSL is generally cheaper. You can get some good value deals with providers such as BT, Tiscali and AOL. However, bear in mind that cable broadband may be a better option if you wish to combine other services and receive a bundle discount. Virgin Media offers broadband, phone, and TV services for one monthly rate.
CONTRACT
You may also want to check the minimum contract as some providers require you to commit for a number of months in return for a longer contract.
However, you may be offered a discounted introductory rate (typically for the first 3 months), a free wired or wireless router, and other incentives.
CUSTOMER SUPPORT
A final consideration is the level of customer support provided. Packages may include free 24-hour technical support (although beware of premium rate telephone numbers), configuration, etc.
Summary
When choosing a broadband provider, consider whether you have a phone exchange in close proximity. If you do, ADSL is a cheaper option with a more consistent service. If you do not, or if you wish to benefit from a bundle deal, cable
broadband may be more appropriate.
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