Review by Bandito 
UPDATED: 306 days ago
member for 5.8 years, 525 visits, last login: 7 days ago
 undisclosed location
 $42 per month
 about 2 days
 "Value"
 "lack of honesty from Customer Service"
 "Beats Telus in my area"
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(ratings below consensus)
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Many areas in the Greater Vancouver ihcluding the burbs still do not have ADSL capabilities. As such, Shaw has a monopoly in these areas. Congestion is a constant issue. Shaw cannot segment areas fast enough as demand for broadband increases.
If there is a choice between ADSL and cable, take ADSL anytime. You will have less frustration and stable connections with excellent download and upload rates: 160 KB/sec. With Shaw, you fluctuate from 60 to ~320 KB/s (if you are lucky), but the norm is usually less than 160 KB/sec. The higher speeds are in very early hours of the morning, say, 4 or 5AM. The best speeds are often, but not always, attainable in areas both served by Shaw and ADSL customers; however, I have experienced very poor connection speed due to congestion in various areas served by both Telus and Shaw, but never with ADSL.
Shaw's cable is very hit and miss. To be safe and avoid headaches, go with ADSL. If you have limited knowledge with your computer and bandwidth, then go with Shaw as they do have a better customer support mechanism, albeit inconsistent. Shaw also isn't honest in their explanations when the fault lies with their network. They do whatever it takes to cover up the fact that they are slower on average compared to ADSL and if their network is congested with too many users. For the lucky ones who have great speeds, enjoy it while it lasts. Sooner or later, you will be affected, unless you live in an area where there are few homes.
Read more here: »DSL FAQ »DSL vs CABLE?
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