Qwest Fiber Optic Vs. Comcast

Qwest and Comcast are broadband providers offering services to home users and small businesses. Qwest provides consumers with heavy-duty DSL and network management facilities. Comcast is an alternative consumer broadband service giving upgraded DSL technology and security facilities. Speeds from any companies can be affected by network congestion.

Speeds

Speed of connection is important to any broadband user. Comcast offers its customers PowerBoost technology to give connection speeds of between 12Mbps and 16Mbps. Qwest offers a range of fiber-optic packages from a basic 1.5Mbps download speed to the advanced 40Mbps connection. Qwest's upload speed is 5Mbps. Remember, purchase a quality router capable of reaching high speeds to make the most of either service.

Security

A secure connection is essential to fight against viruses and trojans. Qwest At Ease gives you online backups, 24-hour security support and the latest anti-virus software. Comcast offers you a security package called Constant Guard, which protects passwords and personal information, defends against viruses, backs up important documentation and safeguards against identity theft. Both companies use Symantec's Norton AntiVirus software as the anti-virus part of their security suites.

Communication

Comcast provides SmartZone, a communication center including up to seven personal email accounts, voice mail access, a universal address book and a 10GB storage facility. Contacts can be shared between all services for extra convenience. Qwest has a communications suite called MyQwest with a free, fully-customizable homepage, straightforward email account setup with 11 free accounts available, a Google search facility and the option to create a local news and events bulletin.

Installation and Support

Installation and technical support are crucial features of any broadband service. Qwest offers a free "easy installation" CD package that it says you can install in under an hour. Or Qwest will send an engineer to help if you prefer. Qwest also provides 24-hour technical support on weekends and during the week. Comcast provides you with a self-installation kit that you can install any time you want without the need for an appointment, but it will send an engineer if you prefer.

References

• Team ITs; Factors Affecting Internet Speed; Tom Eddy; 2000
• Comcast: Broadband Internet
• Qwest: Heavy Duty Internet/DSL Service

Resources

• Symantec

About the Author

Natasha Parks has been a professional writer since 2001 with work published online and in book format for "Thomson Reuters," the "World Patents Index" and thomson.com. Her areas of expertise are varied and include physics, biology, genetics and computing, mental health, relationships, family crises and career development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biophysics from King's College, London.

Photo Credits

• Chad Baker/Digital Vision/Getty Images