Dial-up is Internet access through a telephone line and a modem. The modem dials into an Internet service provider's node and connects to a modem there. Most people do not use this technology anymore, although not too long ago, it was the only method available.
Identification
Dial-up speeds are enormously slower than the high bandwidth provided by broadband, explaining why most Internet users prefer more modern technology. Today's dial-up modems technically have a maximum transfer speed of 56 kilobits per second, but usually only provide 40 to 50 kbps. Connection speed is determined by the infrastructure and how many people are using it. Digital subscriber lines, a technology where high bandwidth is provided over telephone lines, achieve anywhere from 128 kbps to 1.5 megabits per second, and cable and satellite are much faster.
Size
A 2008 study by the Pew Internet and American Life Project showed that of the approximately 70 percent of adult Americans who use the Internet at home, only about 15 percent use dial-up (see Resources). That is a steep drop from the 36 percent in 2006 and 60 percent in 2003. Dial-up is even more rare in Europe.
Geography
Broadband is not available in many rural areas, because of low population where installation of high-bandwidth technology would not be cost effective considering the small profit potential. Dial-up also is commonly chosen by users on limited budgets, because it is cheaper. The Pew study shows that adoption of broadband by low-income Internet users is not increasing significantly, and that 32 percent of dial-up users say the price must come down before they sign on.
History
Computer networking first began in the 1950s, but was not developed for personal home use for many years. The 1970s technology involved an exterior modem into which the telephone receiver was placed. The World Wide Web was created in1989, and quickly gained widespread interest. By the mid-1990s Internet service in homes was increasingly common.
Considerations
Dial-up has many disadvantages when compared to the high speed provided by broadband. Online gaming and streaming media do not work very well, if at all, on dial-up. Web pages load much more slowly, particularly if a website has many pictures. People can download files, software updates, programs, videos, and music tremendously faster with broadband. Photos can be uploaded in a matter of seconds with broadband, but uploading even one photo with a dial-up connection can take several minutes, particularly if the resolution is high.
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