DSL vs. CABLE modem, enlighten me

[Mr 5 0]

No expert here and not a computer guru by a long shot, just a typical 'end-user'.

I originally had a 56k modem and a separate phone line for my internet access. The phone line was $23. per month and the ISP was another $22. with taxes. $45. total. Good ISP service, typical 56k performance.

Went to DSL - regional phone company provider - for a free month promotion intro and I self-installed to save the fee. Cost is $40. per month + tax/fees for a total just a nick under the $45. I paid previously. This made it equal to what I was paying for a second phone line and the ISP, combined.

I was able to have my second telephone line disconnected (saving $23. per month) as DSL runs on the regular house phone line but allows you to have full access to phone service while using DSL. Cool.

Much faster service with no problems since I went on it 18 months ago. No cable service available in my area anyway but right now I have little motivation to change, although I like the speeds of the cable set-ups, I don't find the DSL to be a burden in the least so unless the cable was noticable cheaper I probably would't change.

Bottom line; DSL is great - much faster than modem, of course (you will be thrilled) and apparently cable is even faster yet. If you can get a good cable deal, go for it, but if you go with DSL you won't be exactly deprived.

Sort of like having the choice of getting a new GT or a Cobra. Both are good.