| DSL vs. Cable Modem Comparison - Q&A |
Q4: "Friends tell me that wireless Internet service could be an option, just that it's still off in the future. Is it true that a third high-speed competitor could emerge, or is it technically difficult to deliver high-speed wireless?"
A: Third, fourth, and possibly even more competing high-speed services could emerge, but DSL and cable are currently far ahead in the race for customers... (see below)
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One type of wireless service available today is satellite-based Internet access, such as that offered by Starband. In the case of satellite, the equipment costs as well as monthly fees remain relatively high, as not nearly as many people possess satellite dishes as they do cable TV or telephones.
Another type of wireless service available today is microwave-based, such as that offered by Sprint. These services still are only available in limited geographic areas.
Perhaps the main hurdle the high-speed wireless services must overcome is the perception of weak security. People naturally believe that because wireless traffic travels over "open air," their personal information will be much more open to snooping. Appropriate security technology is being developed and almost certainly will succeed in protecting the average person, but this alone may not change the public's perception of the safety of wireless data.
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