Beginners Guide To Broadband
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Our beginner's guide is a good starting point to help you find out about broadband - which is simply a name used to describe any kind of high speed internet connection.
We'll provide you with a straight forward overview of what broadband is, how it works and the different types available, including different speeds. We list the top 5 benefits of having a broadband internet connection, advise you how to get one & also list the top 5 factors to consider when choosing a provider package. We'll then let you know what to do next.
Before we start, its interesting to know that the UK is now Europe's most developed broadband market with 56% of UK households having broadband by the end of 2008, that's up from 51% in 2007 according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
What Is Broadband & How Does It Work?
Broadband is the name used for any way of connecting your computer to the internet at high speed. Connecting to the internet via broadband means most websites appear at least 40 times faster than via a traditional ‘dial-up’ modem, and you can download audio and video files much more quickly. With broadband you do not need to worry about dialling up or disconnecting after set periods of time as it is always on and you pay a flat fee per month.Unlike dial-up internet, you are also able to make normal telephone calls whilst using broadband. As the connection is always open, it only uses a certain part of the signal that then leaves space for voice calls.
The Different Types Of Broadband
All broadband services require you to choose an internet service provider (known as an ISP) that offers a broadband service in your area and a new high speed modem for your computer.As broadband is now available to 99% of the UK population the marketplace has become really competitive with most internet service providers offering a free modem and free connection / installation. Some even offer a free wireless router for wireless broadband access (see below for more info). The main two types of broadband access currently available are ADSL and Cable.
ADSL Broadband
ADSL stands for asymmetric digital subscriber line and is the most popular type of broadband in the UK as it has covers nearly 99% of the population. Using a high speed modem or router supplied by your ISP, ADSL broadband is sent through your existing BT telephone line. It uses newly developed technology which packs more information into the signal and thus enables you to make and receive telephone calls whilst surfing the web.There are many internet service providers that offer ADSL broadband via your BT telephone line including TalkTalk, BT and AOL. You can read our review of their latest packages by clicking the respective link.
Its worth noting that when you receive your starter pack from your chosen ADSL supplier, it will include a set of microfilters. These help prevent the ADSL signal from causing interference with your normal telephone calls. Simply fit them to all your telephone sockets as per your ISP's instructions.
Cable Broadband
If you have access to cable television in your area through a cable operator like Virgin Media, then you can probably connect to high speed internet using the same line as your digital TV and telephone. The cable itself is made up of a bundle of optical fibres which can carry many times more information than a telephone line and over longer distances, without the signal quality decreasing. Cable is currently available to nearly 55% of the UK's population.A special cable modem is usually required for cable internet access. This is connected, along with your cable TV box, to a cable coming into your home. This is usually installed for free by a cable ISP engineer, though sometimes there is a nominal charge of say £25.
You can read our review on Virgin Media cable broadband by clicking the respective link. Prices now start from just £4.50 a month for unlimited 2Mb broadband. They also offer a range of value for money bundles that contain the likes of cable TV, telephone and broadband - in fact you can now buy all 3 for £30 a month.
Wireless Broadband
Wireless means that with your laptop you can access your broadband internet connection around the house. Using your ADSL or cable broadband connection, together with a wireless router, you can surf the web using your laptop around the house or even in the garden.Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband gives you fast access to the internet using your laptop from everywhere you have 3G mobile phone coverage - you'll also need a USB modem supplied by your mobile ISP. This means you can use your broadband wherever you want it as opposed to fixed line home broadband or wireless hotspots. Read our mobile broadband guide for more info.Broadband Speeds
When choosing a supplier you also need to decide on the broadband internet speed you require. Up to 8Mb is now standard in the marketplace, with some providers offering speeds up to 24Mb and even 50Mb. As a general rule, you'll pay more per month for the faster speeds. The term 'up to xMb' refers to maximum download speeds only (upload speeds are slower). If your telephone line won't support up to, say, 8Mb, your chosen ISP will offer you the best available speed that your line will support.The Top 5 Benefits Of Having A Broadband Internet Connection
1. Increased Speed
Connecting to the internet via broadband means your favourite websites, music & video files, plus email & messenger will work at least 40 times faster than via a traditional ‘dial-up’ modem - thus making a far more pleasurable internet experience.2. Always On Connection
With broadband you do not need to worry about dialling up or disconnecting as it is always on. You can also make normal telephone calls at the same time.3. Fixed Fee Per Month
You pay a fix fee per month for your broadband connection and in most cases, you can use it as much as you like. However, its worth noting that some broadband ISP packages have monthly download usage limits, meaning they may charge you more if you go over your limit.4. Your Phone Line Will Not Be Engaged
Unlike dial-up internet, you are also able to make & receive normal telephone calls whilst using broadband.5. More Fun
Having a broadband internet connection means you can do more fun things online, like download music and videos, listen to your favourite radio stations, play online games with gamers around the world and watch great videos, movies & documentaries.How Do I Get Broadband
You need to choose a package from one of the UK's broadband suppliers and order it from them. When you choose a package its often best to actually order it online on the providers website.The Top 5 Factors To Consider When Choosing A Broadband Package
1. The Cost Per Month & Any One Off Fees
There will be a fixed monthly fee, plus in some instances, a one off fee for a modem, wireless router, or installation.2. Broadband Speed
Up to 8Mb broadband is now standard in the marketplace, so if you'll just be using broadband for surfing, email & downloading some music and videos, its likely this will be all you'll need. As ISP's upgrade their speeds, its also likely that they'll upgrade your broadband speed as well - without it costing you any more money.3. Monthly Download Usage Limits
Some broadband providers offer unlimited monthly download usage whilst others impose a download usage cap. If you don't do too much downloading, its not really something to consider. However, if you're a heavy downloader of large music and video files, its worth considering the monthly download usage limits that apply, plus the broadband speed.4. Package Combinations (Bundles)
Package combinations, known as 'Bundles' are an increasingly common feature with broadband packages. Several providers such as TalkTalk and BT offer a single price per month for Broadband & offpeak or anytime UK phone calls. Companies like Virgin Media and Sky combine broadband, telephone, digital TV and also mobile in the case of Virgin Media.5. Contract Length
Most ISP's like to tie you into a 12 or 18 month contract which is fine for most people. However, if you're after some flexibility, there are some providers like AOL that offer no minimum term contract tie in when you switch to them and bring with you your own modem or wireless router.What Do I Do Next?
So, now you're up to speed with what broadband is all about, we recommend you go to our broadband comparison page where you'll be able to search for and find a comprehensive list of UK broadband provider packages and package combinations available in your postcode area. You'll be able to compare speeds, download limits, bundled extras like phone calls & TV, contract lengths & costs per month for all packages.Like this page? Email it to a friend
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