DSL vs. Cable: The Final Analysis
Now that you're familiar with the realities of DSL and cable, it's time to decide which to buy. Because there are just about as many reasons to choose DSL as there are to choose cable, we've put together the following scorecard to lend a hand.

Security
Any always-on Internet connection with a static IP address is vulnerable to hacker attacks. It's possible to protect your computer to some extent: you can turn it off, turn off your DSL or cable modem (if your provider says this is OK), keep an up-to-date antivirus program running at all times, and install personal firewall software. Or, better still, ask your broadband provider to equip you with a dynamic IP address.

A unique security issue with cable is that the line is shared with others in your area, which makes it easy for a neighbor to snoop around your computer.

DSL opens your computer to similar security risks, according to David Zhu, a senior consultant with X85 (an ASP provider for small businesses) and former network engineer with a regional ISP. "If your DSL provider does not have its own security measures to prevent hacking and listening to traffic on the network, you are vulnerable, too," he cautions.

Cost
Both cable and DSL monthly access fees get lower every day, and you can find some decent deals by shopping around. Many providers offer incentives such as a free modem or installation. For example, the basic HomeOffice DSL package from Concentric Network Corporation gives you 608-kbps download and 128-kbps upload speeds for about $69 per month, with free installation and hardware if you sign a one-year contract. Another Concentric package charges $89 per month for 1.5-mbps download/384-kbps upload speeds. Higher speed DSL service can easily cost $80 or more per month, with some flavors of DSL for small businesses costing several hundred dollars per month. So far, cable Internet service is often a bit cheaper than DSL: $39.95 per month or less. In New York City, for example, Road Runner Internet access from Time Warner Cable delivers 2-mbps download/300-kbps upload speeds for $39.95 per month if you also get cable TV from Time Warner; $59.95 if you don't. Installation costs $69 if you have a network interface card; $99 if you don't.

Availability
DSL service originates from a handful of companies, including Covad, NorthPoint, and a number of baby Bells. However, you typically order the service from your local ISP.

The question of cable modem availability is pretty simple. Either your local cable company offers Internet access or it doesn't. However, if you live in a rural area, neither DSL nor cable may be available.

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