Explain High Speed Internet

Cable Internet relies on the existing coaxial cable installed by local cable companies to transmit data. Coaxial cable is high capacity, capable of transmitting audio and video as well as data up to 20 megabits per second or higher simultaneously. Actual speeds, however, depend on local network infrastructure, the type of cable modem and local traffic load. Cable Internet is provided via a system of hubs in which total bandwidth is shared among a predetermined number of customers.

Digital subscriber line Internet transmits digital data over traditional phone lines to achieve high speeds. The primary factor in available DSL speeds is the distance the subscriber house is from the phone company junction providing service. DSL is dedicated bandwidth to each customer and not shared. Actual speed varies according to customer distance from a DSL provision and quality of phone lines to and within the subscriber home.

Fiber optic Internet uses data converted to light and sent over bundles of transparent glass fiber wire. Fiber optic is an extremely fast technology capable of achieving very high speed data transmission, but is also available only in limited areas where the special fiber optic cables have been provisioned. This also makes it more expensive than other available types of high-speed Internet service.

Wireless broadband encapsulates a range of technologies including fixed wireless fidelity service as well as mobile broadband based on cellular phone technology. This type of Internet service relies on the availability of transmission towers owned and operated by the Internet provider. In the case of cellular broadband, there may be greater total coverage nationwide, but less availability in rural areas. Wi-Fi Internet is more common in rural areas, and is even frequently provided as a perk in metropolitan business on a much smaller scale using their current Internet connection and shared through a wireless access point.

Satellite Internet makes use of orbital satellites to provide high-speed Internet to subscribers even in the most remote areas. The speed of satellite Internet is fairly limited compared to other forms of broadband service. It is also affected by line of sight to the satellites themselves, as well as weather. Extreme weather conditions can obscure and cut off satellite Internet signals. The purchase of special equipment including a special satellite dish and modem make this the most expensive choice for high speed Internet in terms of initial cost.

Broadband over powerline (BPL) delivers high-speed Internet over existing power lines and electrical wiring. It attaches a digital signal to the power running through the lines themselves, achieving speeds comparable to most DSL providers. BPL is only available in very limited areas as it is a relatively new technology. Your local electrical utility provider can inform you of availability or plans for future availability.