Most everyone knows about high speed internet access at this point. It is the only type of service that allows Internet users to take advantage of all the services and applications available on todays Internet. However, are you aware of all the different types of high speed internet service available? High speed internet, also called broadband, is available through a variety of different providers. Here is some options that may be available in your area.

DSL
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. Like dial-up, DSL delivers internet service over the telephone so chances are you are already wired (though DSL is not available everywhere phone service is). Unlike dial up, DSL is high speed internet service. DSL is easy to install, allows you to use the internet and telephone at the same time and offers quality high speed service at a reasonable cost to you.

Cable
Another big competitor among high speed internet providers, cable companies use the existing cable network to deliver high speed internet service to your home. Connect your modem through the cable that is already running into your home and get fast, reliable high speed internet access. Since you are purchasing through your cable company, it is easy to bundle high speed internet with cable and other services like cable telephone.

Satellite Internet
A lesser known member of the high speed internet providers club is satellite internet. Like satellite television, satellite internet uses a home mounted dish to capture a signal delivered by satellites in orbit. This signal provides the homeowner with high speed internet access. While satellite internet can be expensive and requires more equipment than other services, it is available all over the country even in rural areas that cannot get DSL or cable.

Fiber Optic
Fiber optic cable like Verizon FiOS uses a network of fiber optic cables to deliver super fast high speed internet. Faster than both cable and DSL, fiber optic cable is the choice for those looking for the speediest, most seamless service. However, fiber optic cable is less widely available than other services mentioned. Look for fiber optic networks to expand and become a big player in the future of high speed internet service.

High Speed Wireless Internet
Wireless Internet, commonly called WiFi, is a convenient type of service that allows you to drop the hard connection and tap in to the Internet while roaming around, something that is quite useful with a laptop or net book. High speed wireless internet is found in two varieties: fixed and mobile. Fixed WiFi is something that you can set up at home with a wireless router. You will still need Internet service through cable, DSL or other means and the router simply allows you to send the Internet wirelessly your computer. Many public facilities like libraries and airports use WiFi so that patrons can connect with their personal computers. Mobile high speed wireless internet is the type of broadband used on smart phones like the iPhone.

Now that you know all about the different types of broadband, there is probably still one question on your mind: \"Is high speed internet available in my area?\" To answer that question, decide which of these services sound best to you and contact the appropriate providers (i.e. phone company, cable company, etc.).

Do not know who to call to answer the question of is high speed internet available in my area? Start by contacting your states public service commission to get a list of services and providers. Compare several different high speed internet providers to find the fastest service and best prices.