ADSL

Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a modem technology that allows more data to be sent over existing copper telephone lines (POTS) than traditional modems and aims to provide users with always on, flat rated internet access.

Many hoped the introduction of ADSL would act as a salve for bandwidth availability and pricing problems prevalent in South Africa. While this has not strictly been the case, ADSL has its place as a suitable Internet access method in certain market segments. Users considering purchasing an ADSL service should consider their needs in relation to the service they will receive via ADSL. For instance, analogue or ISDN dial-up users, who currently have a high telephone bill, may benefit from the "always on" nature of ADSL, and thus make a significant saving on their telephone bill. Leased line users, however need to be aware of the fact that with ADSL, they will no longer enjoy predictable and guarenteed service levels, which is usually necessary where any kind of business reliance is placed on an Internet access service. The most appropriate service for the individual requirements should be selected.