Basically, T1’s are business connections while DSL services work best for residential connections. T1 has unlimited throughput, guaranteed uptime per month, no port blocking, uploads 2-5 times as high as cable/DSL, faster repair times, and dedicated line. DSL on the other hand, generally has an Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) or Terms of Service (TOS) that limits servers and has high downtimes.

In regards to uploading or downloading of files, DSL does have higher download speeds; however, T1 can upload a lot more. T1 also works better when updating a website or frequently sending files. For instance, in a business setting there are less complicated tasks performed to keep up with operations, such as checking emails, browsing the web, and updating database records. In doing so, there is not much need for downloads.

In addition, DSL has a bandwidth shared with a lot of people in a community. Therefore, many customers are paying for a limited resource. The number of users may affect Internet connections by lowering the speed and performance. Conversely, T1 is a dedicated service with consistent speed and performance. However, the amount paid for T1 depends upon the distance from the service area.

Finally, when compared to DSL, a T1 connection frequently has a very strict Service Level Agreement (SLA), guaranteeing businesses a specific “uptime” performance. A T1 line also resolves connection difficulty with fast resolution that usually takes 4 hours. With DSL, if something goes wrong with the connection, the subscriber may wait days for a resolution. This is the main reason for the significant price difference between the two. That being said, before choosing one should consider what network performance best serves his/her needs.

T1 Bandwirdth vs DSL

In a typical office environment, networking is essential not just for Internet connections but for data/file and printer sharing which is usually availed with DSL or T1 bandwidth. Despite these simple needs, it is very important for any business to understand its data network needs to be able to make the best decision on which service best serves such needs.

DSL Internet for business uses a residential service technology. To get a faster output with uploads, it uses a digital line with compression protocols. It can download up to 3MD depending on the location. The same with residential access, business service suffers with distance. That is, if the business is far from the central telecommunications office, the throughput speed is affected. Aside from this, the service can be spotty and the number of subscribers may decrease.

Most DSL Internet providers say that a single DSL business line is not sufficient to support more than 20 people. Ten (10) is the most realistic number it can support. However, even with only ten users, slowdowns can transpire if everyone transfers data. In addition, DSL service does not guarantee no lag in transmission with additional users.

On the other hand, T1 is a dedicated service. It has a guaranteed and consistent uptime performance and speed. It is a large pipe used to transmit digital voice and data signals from a business location to the requested media. It can manage both voice and data, and has 24 fixed channels to transmit information. It can support up to 50 users with their own bandwidth to avoid disrupting other users. Finally, with T1, a Service Level Agreement (SLA) assures subscribers of a fast and prioritized solution to any Internet disruption ensuring uninterrupted business operations. With this guaranteed bandwidth, T1 is well worth its price but is prohibitive to small businesses. The absence of a similar agreement with a DSL package compromises business operations without much assurance. And basically, T1 is a business connection while DSL is a residential connection.