ADSL Vs VDSL. This is often a discussion point when subscribing to a broadband internet connection. I have already explained the difference between cable and fiber optic internet technologies in an earlier article. Due to high availability and affordable rates ADSL and VDSL are still the most widely used type of internet connections across the globe . The need for high speed internet connection is always in demand due to the frequent HD streaming or sharing the internet connection at home or office. VDSL offers much higher speed than ADSL connections and there are many other differences between ADSL and VDSL which will be uncovered in this article. So, read along to know those vital points of difference.
What is ADSL
ADSL stands for the asymmetric digital subscriber line. The subscriber line is the telephone line which terminates at our homes or offices that we most commonly use for calling. This line is a pair of copper wires and carries our voice signals over to the other end of telephone connection. The same line is used to carry internet data but on different frequencies than those used for voice signals. Both voice and internet data signals are affected by the condition and disturbance in the copper wire.
The ADSL connection is economical than other connections like fiber optics since there is no need to lay down a separate wire or a cable. Same telephone wire can be used for internet connection. ADSL2+ is the latest version of ADSL for those who live in proximity to switches managed by an Internet Service Provider. The closer the user lives near the DSLAM, better will be the speed of transmission.
What is VDSL
VDSL stands for the Very-high-bit-rate Digital Subscriber Line. This technology uses the same digital subscriber line to transmit internet signal. It is a new technology compared to ADSL. VDSL offers better user experience to the Internet applications users. Same subscriber line is used in an effective way. The connectivity to user is provided by installing an optical node near the user(s) location. This node is connected to ISP using fiber optic cables. Like ADSL2+, VDSL also provides a VDSL2 connection for the users who are located within a range of 1.2 Kilometers from the VDSL switches’ location.
ADSL Vs VDSL-Key Differences
- Speed. The primary difference between these two type of internet connections is the speed. VDSL offers higher speed than ADSL connections. VDSL provides the download speed up to 70 Mbps and upload speeds up to 10 Mbps. ADSL, on the other hand, provides a maximum download speed of 24 Mbps and upload speeds are much lower.
- Applications. With VDSL in place, you can run high bandwidth applications like Skype, YouTube or online backup smoothly with virtually no lag.
- Availability. As compared to VDSL, ADSL is widely and easily available. Most of the Internet Service Providers across the world offer these services.
- Price. There is not much variation in the price of both types of internet connections. This is true where a number of service providers offer these services. The higher competition must be the reason for this! (I upgraded from ADSL to VDSL (30 Mbps) connection in the same plan as the earlier ADSL.)
- Signal loss. The signal strength of both ADSL and VDSL reduces as the distance of copper wire between the user and switching station increases. But in comparison to ADSL, VDSL signal attenuates more quickly.
Summary
VDSL is a clear winner over ADSL primarily due to high speed internet connection that streamlines the downloading and uploading of media more smoothly. The speed is not at par with fiber optic connection but gives a stiff competition to cable internet services. If you use ADSL or VDSL, share your views and experience in the comments section below and let us know what you prefer. Your feedback is valuable to us.
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