EarthLink Launches 'Freestanding' DSL

Consumers who wish to subscribe to DSL Internet service without paying for telephone service have a new option, at least in certain areas. EarthLink's Freestanding DSL runs $14.95 for 1.5Mbps of bandwidth and $19.95 for 3.0Mbps. These prices jump to $39.95 and $44.95, respectively, after 6 months. A 12-month contract is required.

Although phone companies such as Verizon has been offering what they call "naked DSL" service for some time, resellers such as EarthLink had to secure new deals with owners of the phone networks. Earthlink's Freestanding DSL will be offered in Verizon territory, which includes parts of California, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Washington state, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, D.C., West Virginia and Wisconsin.