comparison

First, lets understand difference ways of showing speed. Big B vs. little b; Big K vs. little k:

Big B = bytes (Bps = Bytes per second) : Little b = bits (bps = bits per sec.) : 1 Byte is 8 bits

Big K = 1024 bytes : Little k = 1000 bytes (Not too much difference but it is there)

So, $24.95/month gives you a 512Kbps connection with a burst speed up to 1024Kbps.
When you download a file, the initially download is at 1024 Kbps burst speed. After about 2MB
of downloading, your download speed will be shifted down for the speed which you pay for.

After you stop the download, the system will reset and you will be allowed the higher burst
speed again after a few minutes. However, if you continue to download or stream large
quantities of data, the system will continue to shift you down to your subscribed speed.

If you subscribe to a higher price plan (e.g. 768Kbps), not only will the download progress at a
much higher speed, it will not shift down to the speed to which you are subscribed until you
download 4MB. So, really you get much more performance for only $15 more per month.

Before looking at the following comparison table, please be aware there are many gimmicks
and limitation of information which the Cable, DSL and Satellite vendors provide in attempts to
sway consumers in their direction. While there is nothing illegal or fraudulent in this practice,
some (if not most) do find this morally objectionable and may feel deceived when the truth
materializes.

Some questions to ask when comparing services:

Do you have a contract or commitment requirement?

What is the commitment duration?
What is the fine for early termination

What EXACTLY is meant by the term "Up To" when describing service speeds

What is the nominal (or actual speed) I should expect
What is the burst rate, and for how long (Bytes or Megabytes) before throttled
back to the nominal speed

Verify startup costs and rates are not subject to increase after an introductory period