Each broadband solution has advantages and disadvantages. The ideal is to have a fiber optic cable directly connected to the SOHO network. Some locations have only one option, such as cable or DSL. Some locations only have broadband wireless options for Internet connectivity.
If there are multiple broadband solutions available, a cost-versus-benefit analysis should be performed to determine the best solution.
Some factors to consider in making a decision include:
- Cable - Bandwidth is shared by many users, upstream data rates are often slow.
- DSL - Limited bandwidth that is distance sensitive, upstream rate is proportionally quite small compared to downstream rate.
- Fiber-to-the-Home - Requires fiber installation directly to the home (shown in the figure).
- Cellular/Mobile - Coverage is often an issue, even within a SOHO, bandwidth is relatively limited.
- Wi-Fi Mesh - Most municipalities do not have a mesh network deployed; if it is available and the SOHO is in range, then it is a viable option.
- WiMAX - Bit rate is limited to 2 Mb/s per subscriber, cell size is 1 to 2 km (1.25 mi).
- Satellite - Expensive, limited capacity per subscriber; often provides access where no other access is possible.