A note about purchasing DSL vs Cable vs Satellite
DSL is probably the most affordable High Speed Internet (HSI) connection that you can get. It can run at many megabytes per a second, (Though average seems to be around 728KBS - 1MBPS) , and is capable of loading web pages fast.
Cable is best for businesses, simply because it does run fast and can provide content on demand when you want it. Not only that, but it sends and receives fast. (As Patio said, DSL can be faster than Cable)
Satellite has a few problems, but is a great solution for anyone who lives out in the middle of nowhere without DSL.
The only problem is that Satellite is not great for servers or for sending large amounts of data because it sends slower then it receives. (Normally sends half the speed it receives. )
Cable is best when it comes to speed (unless you are near your DSL provider and can obtain even higher speeds) and is probably a more practical option for servers and businesses.
DSL is great for the average home user, its fast, and browses the web fast.
Satellite is best for people who don't live in an area providing DSL or Cable.
Another note: Although in many cases, Cable is faster than DSL, (but sometimes its slower than DSL), you will not notice it when browsing the web. Servers are to blame for the non-noticed increase in Internet speed. When downloading files, you will definitely notice a difference.
How satellite Internet works:
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/question606.htmWhy the difference in my Cable Modem speed?
http://computer.howstuffworks.com/question589.htmHope that helps. I know my writings are somewhat tedious to read...