ADSL

Stands for "Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line."

ADSL is a type of DSL Internet connection. Like SDSL, it transfers digital data over copper telephone lines. The word "asymmetric" means that the upload and download bandwidth are different; the download speed offered to the user is higher than the upload speed.

An ADSL Internet connection is asymmetrical because a copper telephone line only offers a limited amount of bandwidth. Upload and download traffic occupy different parts of the frequency spectrum transmitted over the lines, with the ISP determining the part of the spectrum allocated to each. Since most home Internet users download a lot more data than they upload, ISPs allocate more of that spectrum to download speeds than to upload speeds.

An SDSL line, on the other hand, splits the available spectrum evenly. This provides a symmetrical connection with equal upload and download speeds, but this also means that the maximum download speed of an SDSL line is lower than that of an ADSL line.

Updated November 14, 2022 by Brian P.

quizTest Your Knowledge

A powerline network uses what kind of wiring to create a local area network?

A
Telephone
0%
B
Electrical
0%
C
Cable television
0%
D
Fiber optic
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the Powerline Network definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of ADSL on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.