Types of Broadband Connections

Broadband is a relatively new concept, employed in place of dial-up connections. Broadband is much faster than a dial-up connection and offers a host of advantages over it. Dial-up modems are restricted to a bitrate of less than 56 kbps (kilobits per second) and need the full use of a telephone line.

ADSL is one of the most popular types of broadband used and is delivered through the existing BT telephone by using a special router or modem. It helps in receiving and making calls, using the same single telephone line, even when the Internet is in use.

While employing a ADSL connection, it is essential to fit small devices called microfilters, to all telephone sockets. These filters help in clearing the voice calls, and preventing the ADSL signal from interfering with voice calls.

This is almost similar to an ADSL connection. In comparison to SDSL, ADSL is faster in downloading and a bit slower in uploading data. SDSL needs a separate telephone line to avoid interruptions in the voice calls. Another difference between ADSL and SDSL is that SDSL is more commonly used in businesses, where there are lots of uploads.

Cable is another broadband connection option, where the cable operator provides the Internet connection. It requires a special modem which is connected to the cable TV box. Majority of the cable companies provide packages which combine telephone, TV, as well as Internet.

Nowadays, users are opting for wireless Internet or broadband connections due to its advantages over other connections. A wireless connection enables the user to be online, and send and receive data easily and quickly, which is not possible in ADSL and SDSL connections.

With the invention of data cards, the use of modems and wires to connect to the Internet have taken a back seat. The card comes in a plug-in format and is highly portable. In some remote and rural areas, where ADSL and cable Internet connections are not established, smaller broadband providers are supplying local coverage using wireless technology.

Wireless connections don't require a telephone line. It needs a small antenna installed outside the house, which sends signals to a connection point attached to the computer.

Satellite is the ultimate option for people living in remote areas and who can't receive any other form of broadband Internet. It requires the installation of a special satellite dish. There are mainly two types of connections: one-way connections and two-way connections.

In the one-way connection, you will be able to receive data, but for sending data, you will need a dial-up modem through a telephone line. In the two-way connection, data is both sent and received through the satellite dish, though it is more expensive.

Of these, you can choose one which suits you best, depending upon the time you spend online or your budget. Broadband connections give an effective and advanced working opportunity and environment, and facilitate various activities like booking tickets, watching many live shows, downloading movies, etc.