Why is the maximum speed of a modem limited to 56kbps?

Answer

It really depends on your line quality. The bandwidth of a typical copper line maxes out 56kbps. But it's never guaranteed to reach that speed due to line quality, noise and etc.

Answer

The modems are all able to connect to each other by following established standards. The standard set for dial-up modems has a maximum data transfer rate of 56 Kilobits per second. The government limits the power level of the signal, so it actually is less than 56K. Your line quality (distance from the Central Office (CO), line loading coils, environtmental factors, branches off of the main line, etc., all affect the bandwidth that can be transmitted across the lines. The modems will negotiate the fastest speed that they can, depending upon their settings, line quality, and supported protocol (K56Flex, V.90, V.92, etc.)

DSL modems use frequencies above the normal bandwidth of dial-up analog modems. DSL modems are capable of speeds up to a few Gigabits per second. Because of the higher bandwidth of DSL, line loading coils and other factors may prevent its use. Many telephone companies have been extending their optical fiber networks out to the neighborhoods, reducing the distance between your home and their equipment. This has made DSL possible in many more areas where it was not possible before.

Because of the higher frequencies used by DSL equipment, filters are required for regular analog phone equipment. The filters are put between your telephone, answering machine, or modem and the telephone line. The DSL modem connects directly, without a filter.

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