Broadband Types |
ADSL - Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line
This is the most widespread type of internet connection in the UK, serving approximately 80% of the UK. This type of connection uses your existing BT Telephone line. You will need a specific type of modem to connect your PC to the phone line but you will NOT need another line into your house. Both voice and internet traffic will co-exist on the line without any problems. You WILL however need a small device called a micro filter on each line you have in the house. This stops your internet ADSL signal interfering with your telephone conversations.
Although we say you will use your existing BT telephone cable to use the internet, you DON'T have to use BT's Broadband packages, you can choose the provider that has the most appropriate package for your needs.
One small drawback of the ADSL connection is that speed will decrease the further from the exchange you are. These speeds will still far exceed those you will get from Dial-up connections.
If you reside in an extremely rural setting, you may have to use one of the Wireless or Satellite options. Details for these are below.
Cable
Cable Broadband is not available in all areas of the country. If you already have TV via a cable connection, or cable is available in your are, then this option is open to you. You will be provided a special modem to connect to the cable coming into you home. Other than this difference, and the no loss of speed of performance, which is negligible, this option is basically the same as ADSL.
Wireless
If you live in a remote part of the UK, Wireless internet maybe the most appropriate method of connecting to the internet. This service is typically provided by the smaller providers. You will have a small TV type aerial connected to your house. A device connected to your PC will pick up this signal, so no telephone cables are involved in this setup.
Satellite
At the very last resort a Satellite setup might be your only option. A satellite dish will be installed near you house. These come in two types, a one-way connection and a two-way connection. The first only allows you to receove data to your PC, thus requiring a Dial-up connection to send data, ie emails. The two-way option will require a more expensive satellite dish but will not require the Dial-up connection.
|
|
