Consider getting Symmetric Digital Subscriber Line (SDSL) service as an alternative to T1 service. Do you need both upstream and downstream speed to be the same? Do you run a small or medium business that runs a VPN (virtual private network) or terminal server? Do you need just a dedicated line that transmits data, and not voice? Then you should take a serious look at getting a symmetric high speed digital subscriber line.

A symmetric high speed digital subscriber line costs less than a T1 line. T1 lines are no doubt faster when it comes to transmitting data, but they will cost you hundreds of dollars more per month. Here are things to do to get a symmetric digital subscriber line:

1. Sign up with a SDSL provider.

2. Know what installation plan your SDSL provider offers.

3. Get reliable technical support from your SDSL provider.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Sign up for a plan with a SDSL provider

You can find SDSL providers in your yellow pages, newspapers, or online. The first thing you'll want to know is how long these symmetric digital subscriber line providers have been in business; it's important that your SDSL broadband company is stable. Check on charges for SDSL services. Depending on what speed you're looking for, SDSL prices will vary.

I recommend: Speakeasy Inc., based out of Seattle, WA, offers SDSL services. It has been in business since 1994. Speakeasy offers three types of SDSL speeds, along with custom packages. If you’re a New York resident, consider getting Bway.net, which has been in business since 1995.

Know the installation plan SDSL providers will offer you

Know what your SDSL plan covers, including SDSL equipment, installation and configuration. Get this SDSL information in writing. Most likely, your provider should provide a free router that should be pre-configured. The provider's engineer or technician should come to your site, install the modem, and test your SDSL connection.

I recommend: Primus’ SDSL plan includes a router and a fast SDSL line. It will configure and manage your router so that it works with your SDSL line. Atlantech Online Inc. provides similar services. A field engineer will come out to your site, install and test your SDSL equipment.

Get reliable SDSL services technical support

Having reliable technical support is crucial. After all, your livelihood depends on your SDSL connection being up. Determine what the SDSL provider's technical support hours are and go with the provider that offers 24/7 technical support.

I recommend: Earthlink’s business DSL guarantees your SDSL connection will be up 99.9% of the time. One of the top SDSL providers in the U.S., this SDSL Internet company’s Priority Business Support service offers 24/7 technical support. Also check Lariat.net for immediate and local technical support. Its technicians carry cell phones, and will come out to your site, if it’s necessary.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Ask your SDSL provider if it provides an SLA (Service Level Agreement). If it does, you and the provider should sign one. That way, you'll get a commitment in writing about your SDSL Internet service's uptime. Most of the time, your SDSL connection's uptime should be 99.9%.