High-speed Internet > Q&A's
- How much faster is cable broadband service than dial-up or DSL?
- Are all high-speed Internet networks the same?
- Does cable broadband offer faster maximum speeds than DSL connections?
- Can I stay online for as long as I like?
- Can I surf the Web and talk on the telephone at the same time?
- How do I connect to a high-speed Internet network?
- Should I be worried about the security of my computer if I'm connected to the Internet for long periods of time?
- Can I play games online or with friends across the country with a high-speed Internet connection?
- Can I use advanced Internet telephone services with my high-speed Internet connection?
Q. How much faster is cable broadband than dial-up or DSL?
A. Cable broadband technology can now propel you across the Internet at speeds up to 250 times faster than dial-up, and 5 times the speed of DSL, depending on your cable operator. Some cable broadband services may be up to ten times faster than most DSL services - again speeds are dependent on your cable operator.
Q. Are all high-speed Internet networks the same?
A. No. Cable operators use an advanced fiber network to deliver high-speed Internet, while telephone companies use traditional phone lines to deliver DSL.
Q. Does cable broadband offer faster maximum speeds than DSL connections?
A. The speed of a DSL line depends on how close you are to your telephone company's central office, whereas cable broadband is not influenced by location. Because the cable networks have been recently upgraded to provide a range of advanced services, high-speed Internet through cable is faster than DSL.
Q. Can I stay online for as long as I like?
A. Yes. Given most high-speed Internet subscribers typically pay a monthly access fee for unlimited time on the network, they can usually maintain a high-speed Internet connection to the Internet for as long as they like.
Q. Can I surf the Web and talk on the telephone at the same time?
A. Yes. You can surf the Internet and talk on the phone at the same time with both cable broadband and DSL.
Q. How do I connect to a high-speed Internet network?
A. With a modem connected to your existing cable connection, you have instant access to the Internet. With dial-up service, you must call into the network over existing phone lines which can result in busy signals and dropped calls.
Q. Should I be worried about the security of my computer if I'm connected to the Internet for long periods of time?
A. Security is a very important topic for high-speed Internet access providers. Many providers are now providing firewall protection software to help guard your computer from unwanted visitors. It is important to have firewall software installed on your computer. If you have children, you should also consider using Parental Controls software, which is often provided free by your provider. 
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Q. Can I play games online or with friends across the country with a high-speed Internet connection?
A. Yes. A high-speed Internet connection can run the games you love and connect you with opponents almost anywhere in the world. Because cable broadband typically offers greater upstream speed than DSL, it can offer a superior multi-player gaming experience.
Q. Can I use advanced Internet telephone services with my high-speed Internet connection?
A. Yes, if you purchase digital telephone service, you may use it with your high-speed Internet connection. See the Digital Telephone section of the Optimum Advisor to learn more about how telephone service from your cable company compares to traditional telephone service and Internet Telephony. Click here to visit the Digital Telephone section of The Optimum Advisor.
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