Rate-Adaptive Digital Subscriber Line (RADSL) is a DSL technology akin to ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) in that both feature more download bandwidth than upload bandwidth. RDSL is an improvement on ADSL technology, however, because with RADSL service, customers will enjoy more consistent download speeds in the event of line noise. To achieve this, RADSL equipment automatically trades some upload bandwidth for additional download bandwidth when noise is present between the telephone exchange and the modem.

The improvements that rate adaptive digital subscriber technology offers in noise tolerance and signal loss tolerance also result in greater achievable transmission distances. Consequently, rate adaptive DSL and business RADSL providers are able to provide service to many suburban homes and businesses that they could not reach using ADSL. With RADSL broadband, subscribers who are closer to the exchange experience higher capacities, with those who are further away receive lower rates. When considering RADSL, follow this blueprint:

1. Find an RADSL provider in your area that offers competitive pricing and terms.

2. Find good quality RADSL modems and routers.

3. Find an RADSL service provider that offers 24-hour customer service.

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

Find a competitively priced business RADSL provider

Prices vary greatly for DSL service. Sign up with a service that offers discounted service for the first month or two and a competitive price thereafter.

I recommend: For the small business, Everything DSL offers top carriers, fast installation and the expertise of marketing specialists to help you optimize your website. Comcast offers business DSL at sensationally low prices, as does Cox.

Find dependable, good quality RADSL equipment

When setting up Internet access components, a modem is necessary to connect a computer or a router to a DSL phone line in order to access the DSL service. It is common to connect a group of equipment together, e.g. multiple computers to share the access to the Internet. In this case, the unit is termed a DSL router.

I recommend: D-Link carries a line of RADSL-compatible routers and related equipment. Cyber Trails also carries a large selection of DSL equipment, including RADSL routers and modems at competitive prices. Another choice for good quality equipment is Computer Parts Galore, which carries a variety of DSL modems and routers, including RADSL routers made by Paradyne.

Sign up for rate adaptive DSL service with 24-hour customer support

For many businesses, it is essential to be able to contact a live person for account help or for technical assistance any time of day. Many providers offer service around the clock.

I recommend: Time Warner Cable offers three levels of Business Class DSL service and they provide 24/7 phone support for account needs as well as technical support. Time Warner Cable (Small Businesses) service provides voice, access, DNS, email, managed security, managed storage and web hosting for the small business. Time Warner Cable (Medium Businesses) additionally offers a static IP for medium-sized businesses. Time Warner Cable (Large Businesses) provides metro ethernet solutions, business class ethernet and optical fiber technology for the large business. DSL Extreme also offers an impressive array of DSL solutions for businesses.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Cable's lower cost and simplicity is better for home Internet users. But small businesses will prefer rate adaptive DSL because of its higher speed, guaranteed performance and security.