Rural Internet Access Cooperative

High speed internet is a huge annual expense for many American homes and businesses. Often costing upwards of $60 a month, it adds up quickly, and can have a huge impact on the bottom line of your budget. The question for many families and business owners has been "what are my other options?" This question is especially valid when the history of high speed internet access is put into perspective. For years, cable and DSL were the only option. Now, as satellite internet has lowered in cost, a reasonable third option exists, and forces many consumers to reexamine the issue.

First, let's examine cable internet. Cable has been a mainstay of the high speed internet business for the better part of 15 years, and its readily available in many urban and suburban communities around the country. Its availability and easy "add-on" potential with television services make it a popular choice for homes and businesses. Among the advantages offered by cable are speed and "always-on" functionality. Combined billing might also be an advantage for some households. As for disadvantages ' most consumers tend to experience these further down the line. Prices are frequently raised after a 3 or 6 month introductory period to sometimes astonishing levels. In addition, customers may find it more difficult to discontinue their cable service later on. Doing so will also adversely raise the price of the cable internet access.

In comparison, let's take a look at DSL access. DSL is available in most locations since it usually requires telephone service. Remote locations that aren't serviced by cable often have their high speed internet needs met by DSL. The pricing is usually similar, if not a bit cheaper than cable. The speed usually runs a bit slower than its cable counterparts, and can sometimes be subjected to "line noise," particularly in older neighborhoods where phone lines are somewhat dated. Again, similar to cable, very rural neighborhoods may not have access to DSL at all due to the ages of the phone lines in the area.

Finally, in comparison to the former two, we have satellite internet, a relatively new entrant to the residential market. Although satellite broadband internet has been available for years, the cost has come down recently. The technology to run satellite internet has become easier to install, and companies that offer the service now compete ' something that's a boon for consumers. As it becomes more popular, its also forcing prices down for other high-speed internet providers. Satellite internet is one of the most widely available internet services, requiring only a clear view of the southern sky to work. The dish is similar to a satellite TV dish, and can simply be mounted on a roof. Regardless of where you live, satellite internet is a fast, reliable option that has gained increasing popularity nationwide.

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