Broadband Technologies
Broadband is a digital connection that utilizes multiple signals and may be DSL, cable, satellite, ethernet or several other technologies. The connection speed must exceed 768 kbps in order to be considered ‘broadband’.
Since many providers use the same network backbone that services your area, it is important to compare prices, equipment, customer service and contract length. The advertised bandwidth is not consistantly achieved as providers have limits to their backbone capacity.
Cable Broadband
Many people who have cable TV can get a broadband internet connection from their cable provider. Cable Internet access is usually faster than DSL. But because each neighborhood is serviced by a single coax cable, connection speeds can vary depending on how many people are using the service at the same time. You may also be required to be a cable tv customer.
Installation difficulty is moderate. A cable modem is required along with a Network Interface Card (NIC). Cable Internet providers usually offer the modem free when purchasing Cable Internet service.
DSL
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a high speed connection that uses the same wires as a regular telephone line. DSL uses the digital signal of your phone line. So unlike standard dial up, you can have an open internet connection and an open phone connection at the same time. DSL service doesn’t necessarily require new wiring; it can use the phone line you already have.
Installation difficulty is moderate. A DSL modem is required along with a Network Interface Card (NIC). DSL providers usually offer the modem free when purchasing DSL service.
Typical speeds vary from about 256 Kbps to 2.4 Mbps, depending on the service level, line conditions and other factors.
Satellite Broadband
For those that are unable to get DSL or Cable Internet in there area, satellite broadband may be the best option. Satellite is usually more expensive than DSL or Cable Internet. There is also up to a half second lag as the signal has to travel to the satellite and back again. Still it is much faster than dial up.
Installation is difficult and professional installation is recommended. A satellite dish, satellite modem and frequency converters are required, along with a Network Interface Card (NIC). Satellite internet providers usually offer the equipment free (except for the NIC) when purchasing satellite internet service.
Emerging Technologies
Several exiting, newer network technologies are emerging.
- WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), also known as wireless broadband, is the latest broadband technology. Some cities are installing high speed wireless networks.
- VDSL (Very High Speed DSL) is a new, high speed improvement over standard DSL.
