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What is Broadband?
Traditionally connecting to the Internet meant dialing a specific number from a PC via a fax/modem at a typical speed of
56kbps (narrowband) to then gain access the internet or the WWW (World-Wide-Web).
As speeds improved the term Broadband became popular. Broadband is then accompanied by the speed or bandwidth of information or data (ie: 512kbps, 1Mbps, 8Mbps) that travels down a fibre optic cable or telephone line per second depending on your choice of service.
When ordering Broadband a recent survey shows there is an average waiting time from sign-up, to installation and activation of approximately 14 days.
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What is ADSL Broadband?
ADSL ("Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line") works by splitting your existing telephone line signal into two, one for voice and the other for data.
ADSL2 (2 being the newest version of ADSL technology) is currently optimised to work up to 24Mbps or even higher, for example the ISP (Internet Service Provider) Be Broadband are now offering a super fast 24Mbps service. However this speed can only be achieved if you live close to your local telephone exchange, a simple online postcode check will reveal your chances.
The most popular services in the UK at the moment are running at speeds of 512Kbps and 1MB (approx. 10 to 20 times faster than a dial-up 56kbps modem).
Upload speeds are generally slower on all products and hence this is why it is "asymmetric", because the download speed is different to the upload speed.
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How does ADSL operate in the UK?
The majority of services are available through a broad range of ISPs who are reselling products from network operators such as British Telecommunications ("BT Wholesale"). It is the responsibility of the network operator to deliver your data (whether it be transmitted using a standard modem, ADSL or some other means) to and from your ISP of choice.
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What are the advantages and disadvantages of ADSL?
- High speed "always on" connection
- Fixed monthly cost
- Great value for money
- Competitive modem, router & connections prices - As well as free offers
- 95% of UK population can now receive an ADSL service
- Contended service could result in variable speeds depending upon time of day
- Limits depending - Be sure to choose a service that will not limit your use if are planning on using Broadband excessively
ie: Intensive online gaming and downloading
- Possible teething troubles for new or inexperienced customers.
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What do I need to get online? - ADSL connection
- Telephone Line
Please note inorder to receive ADSL Broadband you need a phone line. If you do not have a phone line and do not wish to have one, the only alternative if you want a Broadband service is to connect via cable Broadband. When choosing a Broadband service all companies state what type of service is provided ie: cable or ADSL (phone line).
When choosing your Broadband service look at the requirements... some ISPs' require you to have a BT telephone line, while others provide a phone line as part of there Broadband packages.
If you have a exisiting phone line, your line must pass a number of tests before installation can go ahead. You are then contacted by your chosen company and advised of there findings. Normally this would be a welcome letter with your activation date.
- An ADSL Modem or Router
Most ISPs will supply you with a modem or router either free of charge or at additional cost. A number of online retailers are also competing to sell you their products.
Connection equipment can be broken down into 3 basic categories:
- USB ADSL Modem
- Easy to install - most popular
The easiest way to get online! If your choice of Broadband ISP does not offer a free USB ADSL modem, prices are now extremely low and we recommend Savastore.com.
Once the equipment is in place and your activation date is confirmed pop in the CD provided, install the drivers and plug in the modem. The majority of home users chose USB modems to get online.
Compare offers which include a free modem
- PCI ADSL Modem
- Recommended for Online Gamers
Requires knowledge of how to install into your computer, and is frequently referred to as an "internal" device. PCI modems deliver the best response times (gamers take note!) but also consume CPU cycles to operate. If you decide to choose a company that does not offer a free PCI ADSL Modem, compare prices - here
- Ethernet/Wireless Router
- Connect more than one computer / business
A standalone device which maintains the connection to the Internet for you. Most routers have an Ethernet connection to your local area network and act as a gateway, DNS, DHCP and firewall service.
Computer enthusiasts or businesses can use a router to connect multiple computers to the Internet without the need for connection sharing software such as Microsoft Internet Connection Sharing (ICS).
Not normally included free with subscriptions to Broadband, compare competitive prices
- A Micro-Filter for each Phone Socket
- Normally free upon subscription
A micro-filter is designed to plug into your phone socket (similar to a standard splitter used to connect multiple telephones). Its purpose is to separate voice from data and must be connected to each phone socket in your house. If you do not have a telephone, or any device which uses the phone line, a micro-filter isn't required. Most ISPs and retailers provide micro filters free of charge upon subscription - or compare here
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What is cable Broadband?
Many companies have there own cable networks such as NTL and Telewest.
You can only subscribe to a cable broadband connection if you happen to be in a cable area. Simply visit an ISP website where you will normally find an online 'post code checker' to instantly find out if you are in a cable area.
The main aim of companies that provide this service is to deliver an all-in-one service for your Broadband, digital TV, phone line and call plan needs ...all down a single cable into your home.
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What are the advantages and disadvantages
of a cable connection?
- Money saving potential by subscribing to a combined package ie: Broadband, TV, phone line
- High speed "always on" connection
- Fixed monthly cost
- Competitive modem, router prices & connections - As well as free offers
- Not provided in all areas
- Contended service could result in variable speeds depending upon time of day
- Limits depending - Be sure to choose a service that will not limit your use if are planning on using Broadband excessively
ie: Intensive online gaming and downloading
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What do I need to get online? - Cable connection
- Check the availability in your area
If you see a service you like firstly check the availability in your area. Just by typing in your post code you can normally check this instantly online via your chosen companies website.
If the service is available you then leave the rest down to your new ISP.
Depending on your choice you can normally get the modem, installation and connection free as the market is so competitive.
But dont feel hard done by if you pay a small charge if it means you're getting the package that best suits you!
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If I want to change Broadband providers?
- Obtain your MAC number
If you are unhappy with your service obviously there are contractual agreements to consider, and you should do everything suggested by your current ISP's technical support team.
If you feel that your broadband service is sub-standard and your current ISP has not lived up to there own terms of service ...then obtain your own unique MAC code from your current ISP (for ADSL users).
This code is required if you wish to change to a new ISP (known as Migration).
If you currently use a cable service and are having the same problems as discussed, then apart from checking the availability of other cable providers in your area, you could get a BT line re-installed and try an ADSL Broadband service provider.
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Broadband System Requirements
ISPs' normally provide a guide to the minimum 'System Requirements' for their Broadband service.
The following information is a typical list of equipment specifications required for Broadband (however always check with the ISP while deciding upon a service):
- PC
- Pentium 200Mhz
- 32MB RAM
- Four-speed CD-ROM player
- Video card/display 800 x 600, 256 colours
- 150MB free on your computers hard drive
- Windows 98, 98SE, ME, 2000 Professional or XP
- Macs are compatible with Broadband but not all ISPs' support Apple Mac Computers - always check.
- A USB port that can supply 500 ma (a rectangular port/plug approximately 12mm wide x 4mm high that allows you to plug in peripheral devices such as modems, printers, MP3 players, webcams etc.)
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Broadband Troubleshooting
If you already have ADSL broadband and are experiencing connection problems, you may wish to read our helpful
Broadband Troubleshooting article.
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Broadband
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