 | DSL Modem: $40-$90 |
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 | DSL Modem/Router Combination: $80-$200 |
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| A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) modem provides Internet access by translating the DSL signal transmitted by a phone company into something a computer understands. Most DSL modems are external, but rare internal DSL modems are available. DSL modems are faster than dial-up modems, but not quite as fast as cable modems. | | |
| Typical costs: | - A DSL modem costs $40 -$90. DSL modems are frequently aimed at specific DSL carriers. Walmart sells modems for a variety of service providers including Actiontec modem for Verizon DSL for $66 and Motorola DSL modem for AT&T for $50.
- Some DSL modems are combination devices with routers, which create a wireless network. These devices cost $80 -$200. The more expensive units allow for faster rates of transfer. The Netgear 802.11n Wireless Router with DSL Modem handles data transfer of up to 150 Mbps and costs $80 at Best Buy. However, the Netgear Rangemax Dual-Band Wireless-N router with DSL modem, which is twice as fast, is about $150.
- Some Internet service providers offer rental of DSL modems for a monthly fee of $5 -$10. Comcast charges $5 -$7 per month to rent a DSL modem, where service is available.
- Some Internet service providers sell DSL modems and provide them with installation of the DSL service. These modems cost $50 -$150. AT&T sells DSL modems for $75 -$100 with their service.
What should be included: | - In the box with a DSL modem should be a power supply, a phone cord, a software CD and an owner's manual.
Additional costs: | - DSL Internet service costs vary depending on speed. Residential DSL service costs $15 -$50 per month, on average, across the country. Nationwide Internet service providers include AT&T, Comcast, Verizon, Time-Warner Cable and Charter Communications.
- To create a wireless network in a home or office, a wireless router is required. Individual routers cost $20 -$180 depending on the signal strength it creates -- higher signal strengths create larger Wi-Fi zones. Amazon sells routers for both business and residential needs.
- Replacement or longer phone cords might be necessary for a DSL modem. Depending on the length, cords cost $1 -$20. For example, Radio Shack sells cords starting at $1.
Discounts: | - Internet service providers such as regularly offer discount prices on Internet service for an initial trial period. Charter Communications has DSL service starting at $20 per month.
- Verizon provides a free DSL modem to customers who sign up for the DSL service. While the DSL modem is free, there is a $20 fee to ship the device.
Shopping for a dsl modem: | - PC Magazine provides a comprehensive networking buying guide.
- Top Ten Reviews provides a comparison guide of top-selling DSL modems and routers.
- Fry's Electronics, with stores in nine Western and Midwestern states, has regular deals on networking products.
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Article updated June 2011 |
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