If you’re in the market to upgrade your internet access from dial up or choose a broadband provider for the first time, it can be confusing. With the different options available, the choice to move to a broadband one is an affordable and smart one as the internet adds more and more broadband content.

The main choices the typical consumer has are DSL, cable, and fiber optic broadband service. The three have different speeds and prices, and their level of access to you can depend on location. But, they all do offer a great boost over the connection speeds one would see with dial up service.

The least expensive broadband access available today is DSL. Telephone companies market the service and install it, but your proximity to a phone company service station affects the speed of your service. Cost wise, the service ranges from $15 to $30 per month, and is perfect for the basic internet user looking to surf the web.

Cable broadband is a little more expensive than DSL, and is run through your local cable television provider. The service can be more expensive, with packages going up from $25 per month, but the connection speeds are generally faster than DSL.

Cable broadband does have wider availability, however, as you can get it if you can also get cable in your home. This service is perfect for those with multiple internet users in their home, or those looking to play games or music online.

A new technology making waves in broadband is fiber optic service. Starting with Verizon’s FiOS, fiber optics have become a great broadband option. However, limited fiber network installation nationally have resulted in this service being absent from many markets.

Bandwidth is by the far the greatest of the three, and there is more potential for network growth. Prices range from $30 - $200 depending on the package you choose. For those people with 3+ computers and are highly ?connected?, run websites, or upload/download a lot of content, this is your best choice.

As with all purchases you make, check all of the local providers’ websites or contact them directly and see what packages are available in your area. Be aware, too, that bundling your services like television and telephone along with the broadband connection through one company can save you more in the long run.