DSL internet
DSL delivers internet over copper telephone lines. It is slower than cable or fiber, but it still serves many rural and older neighbourhoods.
- Speeds range from about 5 Mbps to 100 Mbps.
- The farther you live from the phone company equipment, the slower it gets.
- Many phone companies are replacing copper with fiber or wireless.
How it works
DSL uses the phone line already in your wall. A DSL modem connects to the phone jack, and the signal travels to the phone company's nearest equipment cabinet or central office. Unlike cable, the line to your home is not shared with neighbours.
Distance decides your speed
The signal weakens over copper. A home a few hundred yards from the cabinet may get 50 to 100 Mbps. A home two or three miles away may get 5 to 10 Mbps. The provider can tell you the speed your specific line supports before you order.
Is DSL enough?
A 25 Mbps DSL line handles one or two HD streams, browsing and a video call. It struggles when several people are online at once, and upload is often only 1 to 5 Mbps on slower lines. If your line is under 10 Mbps, look hard at alternatives.
Copper is being retired
Phone companies across the country are phasing out copper networks. Some no longer accept new DSL orders. If you have DSL today, it is worth checking once a year whether fiber, cable, 5G home internet or fixed wireless has reached your address.
What to ask
- What speed does my exact line qualify for?
- Is there a modem fee?
- Is fiber planned for my street, and when?
Common questions
Is DSL the same as dial-up?
No. DSL is always on, far faster, and lets you use the phone at the same time.
Why is my DSL slower than the advertised speed?
Advertised speeds are the maximum for the plan. The length and condition of your copper line set the real figure.
What can replace DSL in a rural area?
Check for fixed wireless, 5G home internet and low-orbit satellite. Any of them is usually faster than a long DSL line.