How real is DSL?

Compaq, Intel, and Microsoft may give telephone companies--notorious for their laggard efforts in the Internet space, such as with ISDN--a much-needed shot in the arm by working to develop DSL (digital subscriber line) hardware and software while hedging their bets on cable modem services like @Home. But even if the PC heavyweights succeed in ironing out disagreements over standards, the question remains whether the venture will be more about actual technology than about marketing.

Compaq, MS, Intel unveil DSL plan by Jim Davis lead story The three companies describe a consortium that will promote technology for high-speed Internet access.

Compaq, MS, Intel to detail DSL by Michael Kanellos Three of high tech's most influential companies, as well as a host of partners, will converge in Washington to describe plans for jump-starting high-speed access.

Ameritech, Compaq partner on DSL by Jeff Pelline Already in a deal with Microsoft to provide DSL service, Ameritech says it will partner with Compaq to make its service user-friendly.

DSL vendor targets providers by Jeff Pelline Tut Systems begins customer trials of a product that lets phone companies and ISPs deploy high-speed Net access.

What the big guys want from DSL by Jim Davis The specific roles that Compaq, Microsoft, and Intel are likely to play will be key for advancing the high-speed Net access scheme.

Compaq, Microsoft, Intel try to light a fire by Alex Lash update The effort by the PC giants to push higher bandwidth isn't surprising, given that the Internet is seen as the growth engine for the industry.

Cable companies still lead in race by Michael Kanellos Cable modem services will face stiff competition from DSL technology.

Is new deal more marketing than technology? by Jeff Pelline and Stephanie Miles news analysis What's in a name? If you're Microsoft, Intel, or Compaq, that's enough to jump-start exotic technologies that have yet to prove themselves.

"DSL lite" provider in the spotlight by Paul Festa Aware, a small DSL provider, watches its stock leap more than 27 percent after gaining the attention of industry giants Microsoft, Intel, and Compaq.

Lucent touts high-speed modem by Michael Kanellos Later this year, Lucent will year release a new technology that radically boosts downloading speeds but doesn't require major investments or equipment overhauls.