DSL vs. T1: Which is Right For Your Business

When it comes to finding internet service for your small to mid sized businesses, the two most common technological possibilities are DSL and T1.

Digital Subscriber Line (or DSL) technology is an inexpensive form of high-speed internet connection frequently used by consumers and small to mid-sized enterprises. This type of connection allows data to be transmitted over the same copper wires used by telephones, at much faster rates than dialup, and can be used by up to 20 employees in a single location.

The drawbacks of DSL, however, include distance limitations, as well as the lack of a guarantee that service won’t lag when many other people in your area are online.

T1 connections, meanwhile, will give your office a set amount of bandwidth, which is then shared among your employees for their voice and data communication needs. T1 technology is seen as being somewhat more reliable than DSL, and can easily provide service to as many as 50 employees in the same office.

Overall, your decision between T1 and DSL will likely depend on the size of your office, and your level of reliance on internet technology, as well as service availability in your area.

DSL service is perfectly sufficient for the majority of small businesses, but those companies with more than 20 employees in a single location, and those who require guaranteed bandwidth levels at all time, may be better off to splurge on a T1 connection.

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