Applications/Implementation

There are many options available for users to access the internet using traditional dial-up modem internet access. Most dial-up companies provide the same services including the same maximum theoretical connection speed, free email addresses, a small amount of web space (typically in the 10MB range) and multiple phone numbers to connect to the internet service provider. The cost for dial-up internet access ranges from $9.95 a month to 21.95 a month. The biggest difference among dial-up internet service providers is the amount of service each company provides. Companies such as Netzero offer very little support to users other than helping them setup their dial-up account while companies such as Earthlink provide more support such as helping setup pop-up blockers, virus protection and other services to help users use their internet access more efficiently.

There are not as many options for broadband access using cable or DSL. Since cable companies have a monopoly on providing cable TV, they are the only companies with infrastructure setup to provide cable broadband. Cable companies that provide cable internet access include Time Warner and Adelphia. Time Warner through their internet subdivision, RoadRunner provides internet access for $44.95 a month and Adelphia offers cable internet access for $42.95 a month. The greatest difference between the two providers is RoadRunner service provides a cable modem while Adelphia requires users to either rent one from Adelphia or buy one.

DSL provides a few more options than cable for users to select which company they use to provide internet access. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires local phone companies to lease phone lines to competitors, including companies providing DSL. In Ohio there are several companies providing DSL services, such as SBC and Speakeasy.

SBC offers many different internet packages for users to select. The greatest difference betweens plans is the upload and download speed and if the IP address assigned to the DSL modem is dynamic or static (IP address changes or is always the same). The cheapest plan SBC offers is $26.95, which provides up to 1.5Mbps download bandwidth depending on distance to central office and 128bps bandwidth for uploading and one dynamic IP address. SBC’s highest internet package offers up to 3.0Mbps download bandwidth and 384kbps upload bandwidth with five static IP addresses for $74.99. The cheapest plan uses ADSL technology and comes with a free DSL modem. The most expensive plan uses SDSL technology and comes with a free DSL Router.

Speakeasy offers DSL service starting at $49.95 for 1.5Mbps download, 256Kbps upload bandwidth and their fastest package is 6.0Mbps download bandwidth and 768Kbps upload bandwidth for $99.95. Depending on the package selected, users receive up to four static IP address and receive dial-up internet access for when they are traveling and away from their DSL connection.

Future trends/Conclusion

The internet speed available through the last mile local loop for users is becoming an increasing concern as users are no longer only checking email and surfing the web. The popularity of video streaming and file sharing programs has increased the need for users to receive ever-faster internet connections coming into their homes. SBC has recently announced they are beginning work on bringing fiber-optic connections to homes making is possible for 15 to 25Mbps DSL speeds to become a reality. At 15Mbps, it would become possible to broadcast high-definition TV or video-on-demand over the DSL connection.