|
What is Broadband (High Speed) Internet?
Broadband is basically a high-speed internet connection. Yet unlike traditional internet connections which pass through a phone line and modem, broadband is a high brandwidth connection that is always on. It is easy to install and can transmit or download information up to or more than 70 times faster than a modem can.
How does Broadband work?
Broadband is the method used to send and receive data over high speed networks. Typically broadband connections that use cable or ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line) have a greater capacity to send data than standard dial-up telephone networks. This means that broadband enables the user to receive more information to their computer in the same time than they would if they were using the traditional modem and dial-up connection. With broadband web pages can be viewed quicker, and e-mails can be sent and received in an instant.
What are the benefits of Broadband?
First of all broadband is fast. It can be up to or more than 70 times faster than dial-up internet connections meaning you can view, send and receive all the information you want in a much shorter timescale than before.
Another advantage of broadband connection is that it is always on. This means the user is permanently connected to the internet cancelling the need for dialling up for a connection each time a website is viewed or e-mails are checked.
Broadband is charged at a flat rate each month, meaning you are not charged for the time spent online. Instead the user is charged a fixed fee and can therefore use it as much or as little as they want without the price changing.
Finally broadband is a dedicated connection. Conventional dial-up connections via a phone line mean that the phone line is then occupied and only becomes free once the internet is disconnected. Broadband allows the user to surf the web without tying up the phone lines.
What are the different connection options?
Generally all broadband connections will offer the same benefits as listed above. However each one will provide the services to the user in slightly different ways.
DSL - ADSL is short for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line and is a type of technology that has been developed so that broadband connections can be created using existing telephone networks. To use this technology the telephone connection point will need to be modified and a high speed modem installed to receive this service.
Cable Modem - This connection requires the installation of cable connection. Cable may already be used on the premises for television or telephone connections but service providers will have to make sure that accessibility to a broadband cable service is available in the area. This service also requires the installation of a special cable modem.
Wireless - Broadband can also be accessed using wireless technology. With wireless technology a receiver outside of the premises sends the signals through to connection points inside. These connection points then send data through to the computer. |