the Cost of DSL Installation

First of all, I just want to note that the price of my DSL service does include a "dedicated broadband phone line." This means that I'm paying a portion for the phone line, but do not have a phone plane. To use the phone would be 10 cents/minute. I will never use this phone, but it is nice to have as a 911 option.

That being said, the DSL itself comes to about $20/month - that is HALF the price of cable. And my speed is still pretty decent. It is advertised as 3MB, but I get closer to 2MB. I'm still fine with that. I suppose when you live in the country, you get use to the compromises.

As I mentioned above, I do not get the advertised speed. But I realize that it an approximation. DSL depends upon the distance from the company.

My only problem with the company was how long it took for the DSL to be installed. From the day I ordered the service, it took over a week for the company to come out to hook me up. This was extremely difficult for me, as I'm a PhD student - having Internet access is my life.

Make sure that you are in a position to switch to DSL before you do so. Previous DSL companies in the past have taken a while to connect, as well. It has to do with turning it on at the company. So hopefully you can live with any delays.

Also, the "big guys" are not the only companies to go with. I'm very happy with my service, and it is a local telephone provider.