Internet Connection Types

To connect to the Internet and the NU Network, choose from dial-up, digital subscriber line (DSL), or cable modem services. NUIT recommends DSL or cable modems for service that most closely matches on-campus connection speeds and allows for quicker access.

See NUIT's Internet Provider Comparison for information about local and national vendors.

	Dial-Up	DSL	Cable
Description	Uses telephone lines; phone cannot be used while online.	Uses telephone lines and digital technology; allows phone to be used while online.	Uses cable TV's coaxial and fiber-optic lines.
Known Issues	Slow speed may not meet expectations of today's user. Will interfere with telephone usage.	Subscribers more than 18,000 feet from a switch station may experience slower speeds. Will not interfere with telephone usage.	Number of subscribers sharing a connection may cause slower speeds. Not all cable segments can support service.
Cost/Month estimate	Lowest cost	Typically mid-range cost	Typically higher-range cost
Ease of Installation	Provided over existing telephone lines.	Provided over existing telephone lines.	Provided over existing cable television lines.
Speed	About 56 to 91 kilobytes-per- second (Kbps).	Up to 5 megabits per second (Mbps). Proximity to the phone switching station enables fastest speeds.	Up to 5 megabits per second (Mbps). Actual speeds may be slower if many users share a segment of the network.
Security	Same as DSL.	Uses dedicated cabling, so you are the only one on your network.	Other people in your area share the same network; install personal firewall software as a precaution.
Options for Travel	Nationwide dial-up numbers available.	Same as dial-up; check with provider.	Not available for travel. Instead, research inexpensive Resources for Travel.

• Internet Provider Comparison

NUIT Support Center

Central helpdesk for faculty, staff, and students.
847-491-HELP (4357)
consultant@northwestern.edu