Ubuntu Linux® For Dummies®

Chapter 8. Broadening Your Horizons with Broadband

In This Chapter

• Selecting your connection type

• Using cable modems

• Using DSL modems

Broadband networking brings Internet performance that previously was the exclusive province of large businesses, government, and universities. Broadband provides people like us the ability to download information and surf the Internet at high speed for affordable prices. There's no dialing and waiting, either, like there is for a dialup Internet connection, because you're always online with broadband.

This chapter helps you select between the two dominant broadband technologies — cable and DSL — and use them with Ubuntu. I tell you how you can make a reasonable choice about what system will work best for you.

Choosing between DSL and Cable

If you're choosing broadband Internet service, the first hurdle is availability. Consider these factors:

• Some telephone lines aren't equipped for DSL service.

  DSL service degrades quickly as the distance to the DSL provider's central office (CO) increases. DSL doesn't work much farther than eight miles from the central office.

• Some cable TV companies don't offer Internet service at all homes (or any homes).

If you have only one broadband option, the decision is simple. But if you have a choice, the decision, basically, is a trade between cost and download speed.

• Cost: DSL generally is cheaper.

  In my experience, the difference is about $10–$15. You might be able to compare DSL providers and find a lower price. (This chapter ...