Broadband

Broadband

Broadband refers to a data network that has a large band of frequencies. Since the band is wide, multiple signals can be transmitted at the same time. Voice, video, and data signals can be sent over a single broadband connection. Broadband connections allow people to access the Internet at high speeds. Various types of broadband connections include cable Internet, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), satellite, VOIP, T1, and DS3 cables.

Broadband connections have revolutionized the way that people access the Internet. In previous generations, people could only access the Internet through slow and costly dial-up services. Now, people can access the Internet efficiently and quickly at an affordable cost.

Cable

Cable Internet access plans are available through cable television providers. The same cable line can be used for viewing television and accessing Internet. You can watch TV, talk on the phone, and surf the Internet simultaneously. Coaxial cables that transfer signals to your television also transfer data to and from your computer. You will need a cable modem, a router, Ethernet cards and routers to set up your home network.

Wireless

Wireless Internet access does not require any cable or "wire." You do not even need a router for multiple users to access the same wireless service. With wireless Internet, the Internet Service Provider (ISP) sends the signal as a radio signal to a tower. This is similar to how a cell phone provider distributes signals. Many providers operate such towers, so wireless Internet is widely available.

Satellite

Satellite is another form of broadband service that is used for high speed Internet access. You can choose this option when DSL, cable, or wireless services are not available in your area. A dish will be installed near your home or company that picks up signals sent from a satellite. Satellite Internet tends to cost more than other broadband Internet options.

DSL

A Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) connection provides high speed Internet access. You can access Internet using a phone line that is connected to a modem in the computer. DSL does not interfere with your telephone service, and you can use the telephone and access the Internet at the same time. Another advantage of using DSL for Internet connection is that you do not have to dial-up every time you want to connect to the Internet. Multiple users on your local area network (LAN) can access the Internet simultaneously.

VOIP

Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) is a technology that provides phone services through your Internet connection. Voice is converted to a digital packet and is transmitted over Internet. When it reaches its destination, it is converted back to a regular telephone signal. With VOIP, you can call regular telephone numbers, and you can even use your standard telephone equipment. VOIP enables low cost International and nationwide calling plans.

T1

A T1 line is a telephone line that is either a copper line or fiber optic cable. The speed of data transfer is faster in a T1 when compared to dial-up connections. T1 lines are typically used in businesses that need multiple data and voice connections.

DS3

Digital Signal 3 (DS3) line is a high speed Internet connection that provides very fast download and upload speeds. A DS3 provides an affordable option for businesses that need high band width Internet connections. A DS3 line has 28 T1 lines, and each channel is capable of transmitting data at speeds of 64 Kbps.

FTTX

Fiber to the X (FTTX) is a general term for any architecture that uses optical fiber instead of the usual copper wires for communication. There are different variations of FTTX that are classified on the basis of the use of fiber. The different types of FTTX include fiber-to-the-home (FTTH), fiber-to-the-curb (FTTC), fiber-to-the-node (FTTN), and fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP).