Today, there are many different technologies that allow you to connect to the Internet. Currently, there are four technologies the average home user may use. Below, I have tried to detail some of the facts about each technologies and approximate costs. I was not able to quote figures from local companies.

56kbps Modem

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Fastest modems currently available
Downloads capable of 56kbps, although average about 45kbps
Uploads limited to 33.6kbps
Be careful to see if your ISP supports V.90 or one of the older
   competing standards (K56Flex and x2) replaced by V.90
Some phone lines don't support 56k. You can test by calling
   (888) 877-9248 and enter Line Test as user name

Start-Up Cost: about $100-120 for modem
Monthly Cost*: $20 ISP Access
      * Does not include separate phone line

Cable Modem

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Provides Net access at about 1.5 mbps
About 27 times faster than 56k modem
Rivals speed of the T1 line at the library
Limited availability (currently only in 3 places in Ohio)
Closest current access is in Canton
Modem rented from cable company

Start-Up Cost: Cable Installation, Setup Varies
Monthly Cost*: Varies, $40 in Columbus OH
      * Plus cost of Cable TV

Satellite

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Widely available
Speeds up to 400kbps for downloading only
Requires phone-line modem and separate ISP (see 56k Modem)
Can be hard to install and configure

Start-Up Cost: $300-400 dish, $200 installation
Monthly Cost*: Varies, can be up to $100
      * Also requires separate ISP and modem

ISDN

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Channels of 64k each, can be combined into one 128k channel
Can be difficult to install
Not always available in more remote areas

Start-Up Cost: about $100-400 for ISDN adapter
                        plus installation costs
Monthly Charges: Varies, $60-70 month
                        plus usage charges

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Last modified on 20 November 2001.
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