Broadband speeds

Broadband is the faster form of an internet connection. There are several forms of broadband connections but here are the most popular two:

ADSL (DSL) – Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line

This is the most common form of broadband. It is delivered from your phone network, through a modem or router but it won’t disturb your calls. Chances are you’ll probably choose this, as it is the most common form of broadband (used by 61% of the USA) and it is available in over 80% of the UK. ADSL or (DSL in USA) is cheaper than a cable connection but has a slower speed.

Cable

A cable broadband connection could be a better option than ADSL if you already have an existing cable TV connection. As with ADSL, this won’t interfere with your TV signal in any way. I personally use a cable broadband connection and I’m very satisfied with it. The only thing I can complain about is the downtime which occurs sometimes (every few months) but it gets fixed within a few hours. This is one of the downsides of my Internet Service Provider.

There are also other broadband connections such as Wireless and satellite, but they are less popular and we won’t discuss them here.

Broadband speeds

Broadband speed is generally faster than other internet connections (such as wireless or dial-up), but speeds and prices vary between Internet Service Providers (ISP’s). Before getting a broadband internet connection, it is very important to choose the type of connection that is easiest to set up in your home, and choose the ISP with the best speed and price. Of course, if you just use the internet to read your email and news a couple of times a day, you don’t need the fastest and most expensive connection out there.

Broadband Expert is a great website to search for Internet Service Providers and compare them, especially if you live in the UK. It also has a handybroadband speed test feature that lets you check your current internet connection speed and see if it really is what your ISP promised you.

So if you are not satisfied with your current, slow internet connection, why not upgrade to a faster broadband connection instead?