abbreviation
DSL
dee-es-EL
DSL (abbreviation) means Digital subscriber line: a technology that carries broadband internet over ordinary copper telephone wires, allowing the line to be used for calls and data at the same time. Example: “The village is still on DSL rather than fibre.”
abbreviation
1
Digital subscriber line: a technology that carries broadband internet over ordinary copper telephone wires, allowing the line to be used for calls and data at the same time.
"The village is still on DSL rather than fibre."
"Our DSL connection tops out at about twelve megabits."
2
Domain-specific language: a programming or configuration language designed for one narrow purpose rather than for general use.
"The build tool ships with its own DSL for describing pipelines."
How to use DSL
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIt is internet service delivered over a normal phone line.
When to use it
Standard technical vocabulary, common in service contracts and support calls. ADSL and VDSL are specific varieties of DSL.
Memory tip
You say a house is "on DSL" or "has DSL", meaning that is how its internet arrives.
Common pairings
DSL modem
DSL line
DSL provider
switch from DSL to fibre
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The village is still on _____ rather than fibre.
Synonyms
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broadband
ADSL
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between DSL and fibre?
DSL sends data as electrical signals over existing copper telephone wire, so speed drops sharply the further you are from the exchange. Fibre carries light along glass strands, giving far higher and more consistent speeds, but it requires new cable to be laid.
Is DSL the same as broadband?
DSL is one kind of broadband, not a synonym for it. Cable, fibre, satellite and fixed wireless are all broadband too, and DSL is generally the slowest of them.
Does DSL tie up the phone line?
No. Unlike dial-up, DSL uses frequencies above those used for speech, so you can browse and make calls at once. A small filter on each socket keeps the two apart.
What is the meaning of DSL?
"DSL" (abbreviation) means digital subscriber line: a technology that carries broadband internet over ordinary copper telephone wires, allowing the line to be used for calls and data at the same time.
