ADSL description

Short for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line, a technology that allows more data to be sent over existing copper telephone lines reaching speeds up to 1024kbps (over 18 times that of a dialup connection). Thus allowing quick downloads of large files, and there are no call costs and no need to disconnect from the Internet.

ADSL strengths

- Cheap installation and running costs
- Up to 1Mbps download (enough for most SOHO/SME's)
- Cost effective VPN capacity with middle range ADSL router
- Fast installation time

ADSL weaknesses

- Higher Contention Ratio on the network
- Maximum upload speed of 256kbps
- Maximum download speed of 1Mbps
- Lack of any Service Level Agreement

Leased Line description

This is a dedicated data line that is rented for exclusive 24 hour, 7 days a week use from one location to another location. The highest speed data connections require a leased line.

Leased Line strengths

- Speed of up to 155Mbps per line
- No contention ratio with a dedicated line
- SLA available
- Diversity of providers for resilience
- Symmetric bandwidth enables the ability to host services

Leased Line weaknesses

- High installation costs
- Higher monthly line rental
- Higher cost of equipment