Which DSL provider?

[mattg2k4]

My family is going to buy DSL internet soon, and we want some input on the various providers.

Right now we're looking at SBC or Verizon. They are both $50/mo, but SBC is 1.5Mb/s and Verizon is 768Kb/s. Has anyone had experience with these providers and could they tell us how reliable they are, ease of setup, good technical support, etc.

[DrZaius]

Hi mattg2k4,

I have SBC/PacBell DSL and I like the service. The few times I've had problems they've sent someone out within a few days, and they even replaced my USB modem (avoid!) with an external ethernet one. They're pretty reliable as well, havn't had much downtime. Plus, the faster speed is always a bonus.

[SARGE]

In my prejudiced opinion, your local telco is the best deal. I've had SBC since December and it's great. When you involve a 3rd party (like another ISP), there becomes a 3rd wheel to deal with if problems arise. With SBC you can talk while surfing and get a dial-up account along with the DSL; good as a back-up if DSL goes down. Besides, I work on DSL daily. ;)

[glc]

I would like to rephrase what Sarge said - the local telco is the least hassles.

[Mattman]

You should check out www.dslreports.com . They have many user reviews on all kinds of broadband companies, especially DSL.

[Xayd]

Verizon is on the level of "this sucks" up there with Sprint wireless.

No brainer there, go with SBC.