Today the world is connected by and large through various communication networks. From cellular phones, to trans-oceanic cables connecting DSL and cable internet networks the amount of time, energy and infrastructure the planet has put into staying in touch with one another is staggering. This kind of international mass communication is great for building businesses, relationships and awareness of the world at large, and is helping the planet to slowly work towards becoming more united than ever. The two major methods of transmission of information are satellite transmission and terrestrial transmission, or transmission by wire or cable. Sometimes these two methods work together to transport and transmit information, and other times they work alone. Although the average person might not realize it, he or she likely makes a decision concerning which type of service is preferable every now and again. A perfect example is the decision between cable TV and satellite TV, and increasingly the difference between broadband internet brought by a cable, and that transmitted by satellite.

The benefits and drawbacks of each type of service are varied, and often depend greatly on a person's location, needs, and economic status. While satellite internet is generally slower than internet by a wire or cable, for many people it is the only choice if they want broadband internet because they live in a rural or remote area where the terrestrial broadband networks have yet to be extended, and will likely never be extended with improving wireless technology. On the other side of the fence, satellite TV is widely regarded as a superior service than cable, due to not only the wealth of channels and programming, but the high definition picture and sound quality that comes on many channels. With satellite T viewers find the perfect home entertainment package for watching sports, movies, music, shows, local news, and much more. The problem there can be finding the right package or combination of services if one wants to go with part terrestrial services and part satellite services.

As wireless technologies continue to improve, it is likely people will have even more choices than ever. Today there are services like 3G internet, WiMax internet, and many more mobile broadband networks that will likely only increase in popularity. In many cities across the US there are several ways to get media, and to communicate, meaning that personal preference and convenience will be further catered to in terms of offering more and more choices. Depending on where you live, you may already be using three, four, or more different methods of transmission of information and entertainment. Keeping up with the options in a constantly changing world can be tough, but it is advantageous so that customers of these services get the most out of their money. It can be costly to maintain many kinds of technologies, so the informed consumer will be the consumer that ultimately wins in the end. Beginning with a decision between satellite and cable transmission, or choosing both, is an excellent place to get started!

By John R. Harrison